Since the passing of I-502 in Washington State, many questions how arisen for where to purchase recreational cannabis to the new proper ways of transporting and consuming cannabis. Naturally since the plant comes from nature it makes sense that the best way to explore the awesomeness of the plant if outside. In a perfect world that would be all fine and good, but well you know we live on earth an all.
So to keep you updated on the new rules of consumption we have put together this handy guide that lists the do’s and don’ts for recreational cannabis consumption in Washington State (for now).
The Many Places That You Are Not Allowed To Consume Cannabis
Avoid these places so as not to become a scofflaw and staying on the right side of the law. Smoking cannabis consumption is definitely illegal in public and in view of the general public. In and around cities and towns, indoors and outdoors. Also If you aren’t allowed to smoke or consume alcohol in a place, it’s a good bet that you’ll also be legally prohibited from smoking or consuming pot in any form.
Wait? Can I Smoke There?
The State of Washington has very strict laws about public smoking, so this rules out most public places, including restaurants and bars. Also, most hotels and places of business also have no smoking policies. In fact, many have started fining patrons for violating the rules including having a heavy cannabis odor. So If you can’t smoke tobacco there, it will be illegal to smoke anything else there as well.
What Gives, You Can Drink But Not Smoke !?
Always remember that cannabis use and possession are still against federal law (national law). Many popular visitor attractions in Washington State are on federal land, including national parks, national monuments, national wildlife refuges, and national forests. Military and Department of Energy lands are also federally owned. Many mountain ski slopes are located on federal land.
While not all-inclusive, here are the highlights of the places where YOU ARE NOT ALLOWED to smoke pot or consume cannabis products in Washington State.
- In public
- In view of the general public
- At the retail shop where you bought it
- Most hotels and other accommodations
- Restaurants
- Lounges, clubs, and bars
- Sports stadiums
- Concert venues
- All federal land, including national parks and national forests
- Some Indian reservation land
The State of Washington is one of the many states where having an open container of alcohol is prohibited in public places as well as in your vehicle.
What If Johnny Law Catches Up With Me!
If a state or local law enforcement catches you smoking weed or consuming cannabis where it remains illegal, you might receive a ticket or citation and have to pay a fine. If you chose to consume cannabis and drive a vehicle then you will be charged with a DUI that can lead to a felony and jail time. Some hotels may charge a service/cleaning fee. If you are caught with cannabis by federal agents on federal lands, the penalty may include a citation, losing your driver’s license, performing community service, and/or a probationary sentence.
So How Do I Consume Cannabis At All?
Well for now until the Federal law changes the safest places are at home, on private property or in place that is concealed from view as well as odor. So limited would be an understatement, but smoking safely is more of the point.
If You Are Going To Smoke…
Smoke local small craft grown cannabis, and smoke responsibly.
.This product has intoxicating effects, may be habit-forming, and may be illegal outside of Washington State. For use only by adults 21 years or older. Keep out of reach of children. There may be health risks associated with consumption of this product.
English
French
German