Montana State Advertising Regulations
Licensees are permitted to promote their business and market their brand but are restricted to advertising marijuana or marijuana products only through electronic means. Advertising is defined as any communication intended to directly induce the purchase or consumption of marijuana products, including the promotion of special pricing or discounts. However, branding and marketing activities that do not specifically reference marijuana products are allowed. Outdoor signage can include the words "marijuana" or "cannabis," but must not use colloquial terms, imagery of marijuana or its products, or any representations that suggest the presence of marijuana, such as smoke or edibles. Additionally, all outdoor signage must comply with local sign ordinances.
Websites and social media accounts for marijuana businesses must ensure that all visitors and followers are 21 years of age or older. This includes using age verification methods on websites and maintaining private social media accounts with clear notices about age restrictions. QR codes in electronic advertising must also lead to content that verifies users are of legal age. Traditional advertising methods like television, radio, print media, and billboards are prohibited. Furthermore, any signage or advertisements that claim marijuana products are safe, or that might appeal to youth, such as using toys, cartoons, or commercial mascots near a marijuana business, are not allowed.
Certain exceptions apply to these rules. Informational pamphlets and business cards can be used at marijuana trade conferences, provided no marijuana products are sold outside of licensed premises. Marijuana businesses are also allowed to claim that their products have been tested by a licensed laboratory, even though other safety claims are prohibited. These guidelines are designed to ensure that advertising remains responsible, compliant with regulations, and does not appeal to underage individuals.