People are reportedly queuing up to buy marijuana in Colorado, the first American state where it has become legal to grow and sell the drug for recreational use.
Colorado has legalised the possession and use of small amounts of marijuana. Photo: AFP
The state has legalised the possession and use of small amounts of marijuana for non-medical purposes as a result of referendums held in 2012.
More than 20 shops are now licensed to sell limited amounts to people over the age of 21, the BBC reports.
Several stores are reporting long queues, and at one shop in Denver, people cheered as the first person made a purchase.
Washington state is expected to open marijuana stores later this year.
Colorado and Washington are among 20 states to have approved marijuana use for medical purposes. The drug is still illegal under federal law.
Under the new law, cannabis will be sold like alcohol. Residents will be able to buy up to one ounce, while those from out of the state can purchase up to a quarter of an ounce.