Cannabis Across States: A Traveler’s Guide to U.S. Marijuana Laws
In the United States, cannabis laws vary significantly from state to state, creating a patchwork of regulations that can be confusing for visitors. California, Nevada and Florida are three states where many tourists visit while in America for the sun, beaches, gambling and entertainment available. If you are one of them, get your bags packed and read on!
Provided below is a concise guide to help you navigate the cannabis landscape in these states, so you can make the most of them and keep yourself out of trouble.
California
California is known for its progressive stance on cannabis. It was the first state to legalize medical marijuana in 1996 and, two decades later, legalized recreational use in 2016. Adults aged 21 and over can legally purchase cannabis from licensed dispensaries. You can buy up to one ounce (28.5 grams) of cannabis flower or up to eight grams of cannabis concentrate, which includes products like edibles and vapes. Consumption in public remains illegal, though it’s widely tolerated in some private establishments and certain lounges designed specifically for cannabis use. Near Disneyland, particularly in areas like Anaheim, it’s essential to be aware that while cannabis is legal at the state level, local regulations might restrict the operation of dispensaries and the public consumption of cannabis.
Nevada
In Nevada, recreational cannabis has been legal since 2017. Similar to California, the purchase and possession limits are one ounce of cannabis flower or one-eighth of an ounce of concentrate for recreational users. However, Nevada recently changed that law in 2024 to 2.5 ounces of cannabis flower, or one-quarter of an ounce of concentrated cannabis (the separated resin, whether crude or purified, obtained from cannabis). Las Vegas has embraced cannabis culture, with numerous dispensaries conveniently located near tourist hubs, including areas close to the Strip. However, public consumption remains illegal. Nevada’s first regulated cannabis lounge opened in Las Vegas in February of this year, which opens up spaces for legal consumption. Other than the lounges, consumption is restricted to private properties, away from public view. Hotels and Casinos do not count as private properties.
Florida
Florida’s cannabis laws are more restrictive. Cannabis is legal for medicinal purposes but remains illegal for recreational use. Only registered medical marijuana patients are allowed to purchase cannabis from licensed medical marijuana treatment centers. As a visitor, unless you have a valid medical marijuana card from a reciprocating state, you won’t be able to legally purchase or possess cannabis in Florida. It’s particularly important to note that law enforcement in Florida can be more stringent regarding cannabis compared to California and Nevada.
Travel Considerations
When traveling between states, even where cannabis is legal, it’s crucial to remember that transporting cannabis across state lines is a federal offense in the U.S. Each state’s laws are contained within that state only. Additionally, while traveling by car within states where cannabis is legal, ensure that any cannabis products purchased are kept in a closed container away from the driver’s reach to comply with open container laws similar to those for alcohol.
Safety Tips
If you choose to consume cannabis during your visits to California and Nevada, always do so responsibly. Start with a low dose, especially with edibles, as they can have a more potent and delayed effect compared to smoking or vaping. Always follow local laws regarding where you can consume cannabis to avoid any legal issues.
As laws and policies can change, it’s advisable to check the current regulations right before your trip to ensure you have the most up-to-date information, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience while visiting the U.S.