Can I smoke weed in public or travel with pot in my car? Here’s how to legally celebrate 4/20
April 20 is more than just another Thursday, for some.
The holiday — commonly referred to as 4/20 — is believed to have been first celebrated by a group of teens in Northern California in 1971. Now, it brings people together to smoke and celebrate recreational weed across the world. Dispensaries usually have sales on cannabis products and you’ll even find block parties and promotional events.
If you plan to participate in the 4/20 festivities this year, here is a refresher on cannabis laws in California:
Can I smoke weed in a public place?
It’s illegal to smoke weed in public. If you’re caught, you can be fined up to $100, and up to $250 if you’re in an area where smoking tobacco is prohibited.
READ MORE:
Can I travel with marijuana?
You can drive with marijuana in your car in California, but it has to be in a sealed package or container or placed in the trunk. It’s illegal to cross state lines, as it is prohibited on the federal level.
Some airports in California may allow travelers to bring the legal amount of weed, but the Transportation Security Administration officer and local law enforcement will have the final say on whether your weed can get through the checkpoint.
READ MORE:
How much weed can I legally poses in California?
Those 21 and older can legally possess 28.5 grams of flower or no more than eight grams of concentrated cannabis. You can also grow up to six plants for personal use. Rules differ for medical marijuana users.
READ MORE:
Other California weed laws
Driving under the influence is illegal.
You need to have a license to sell weed via a business. Other than that, exchanging weed for money is illegal.
Recreational cannabis use is only legal for those 21 years old and over.
If you’re caught with weed on a school campus that teaches kids from kindergarten to grade 12 during open hours, expect a hefty fine.
California recently passed a new cannabis bill, protecting employees from weed bias, but it won’t go into effect until 2024.