Legal Recreational Marijuana: What You Need to Know

Sep 15, 2017Blog, Legal Tips

Legal Recreational Marijuana in Las Vegas: What You Need to Know 

Now that recreational marijuana has been legalized in Nevada, marijuana smokers in Las Vegas are adapting to a new set of laws. Failure to familiarize yourself with these newly adopted laws can result in fines, community service, or arrest. Below is a look at some of the key questions related to marijuana use in Las Vegas and the circumstances that may lead to arrest for violating the law.

Where can you legally smoke marijuana in Las Vegas?

While many purchasing laws have been relaxed, there are still many smoking-related restrictions. While you are able to legally purchase marijuana can carry it with you, there are only a few places where you can legally smoke marijuana. They include the following:

  • Within a private home
  • On the porch of a private home
  • Within the confines of a private backyard

What are some locations where marijuana smoking is prohibited by law?

In a nutshell, people are prohibited from smoking marijuana in public locations or on federal land. Specific locations where it is illegal to smoke marijuana include the following:

  • Casinos
  • Restaurants and bars
  • Parks
  • Most hotels
  • Federally subsidized housing

When can smoking or transporting marijuana lead to arrest?

Despite the changes to Nevada marijuana laws, there are still many situations that can lead to fines or arrest. Failure to adhere to marijuana consumption laws can result in fines or jail time depending upon the offense. Below are five specific behaviors that can result in an arrest:

  • Consuming marijuana in a public place.
  • Driving while under the influence of marijuana.
  • Attempting to use the U.S. Postal Service to deliver marijuana.
  • Distribution of marijuana to minors.
  • Transporting marijuana across state lines.

What is the maximum quantity of marijuana that you can purchase?

Recreational marijuana users are permitted to buy a maximum of one ounce of cannabis flower during any single purchase. Consumers who purchase marijuana concentrate may buy up to 1/8 of an ounce of concentrate during a single visit to a marijuana dispensary. Residents 18 or older who have a current medical marijuana card may buy up to 2.5 ounces of marijuana within a 14-day timeframe.

How are marijuana purchases tracked?

Consumers who attempt to purchase marijuana from multiple dispensaries may find themselves at risk for arrest. The state of Nevada employs real-time tracking methodology to monitor purchasing behavior of buyers and to stop people to buying more than the allowed amount during the defined time period.

Are there any drug-free school zones?

Marijuana establishments and consumption of marijuana are prohibited within 1,000 feet of a private or public elementary or high school. The laws are also strict when it comes to daycares, religious buildings, public swimming pools, and recreational facilities for children. Marijuana should not be dispensed or smoked within 300 feet of these establishments.

What happens if there is a conflict between state and federal laws?

Nevada is one of several states that have legalized recreational marijuana use. While state laws may seem cut and dry, there are occasional situations in which state laws conflict with federal laws. For instance, while Las Vegas residents can legally transport marijuana in their vehicles, the federal government considers marijuana to be a Schedule 1 (extremely harmful) substance, making it illegal to transport marijuana on a plane flight or across state lines. In such scenarios, residents should be aware federal laws trump state laws in Las Vegas.

What should you do if you are arrested?

The outcome of your arrest will hinge in great part upon the behavior that you display when you are arrested. If you are arrested for illegal consumption or transportation of marijuana in Las Vegas, you should remain calm and follow a few simple steps:

  • Maintain your composure.
  • Comply with the authorities; do not try to resist arrest.
  • Seek the guidance of a trusted bail bonds provider.

Choosing the Best Bail Bonds Provider

As you decide which bail bonds provider to contact, consider the experience and community reputation of each provider. The best bail bonds providers are licensed and insured, and have staff who help people 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Please contact us to learn how we can help you if you or a loved one is arrested for a marijuana-related crime. The 8-Ball Bail Bonds team looks forward to assisting you!