Is Weed Legal in Las Vegas?

Las Vegas is known for its casinos, nightlife, entertainment, and tourism, but many visitors and locals ask: Is Marijuana legal in Las Vegas? The short answer is yes, but strict laws, regulations, an age restriction, and retail rules govern its use, possession, smoking, and sale in the city, affecting people and businesses. 

In Nevada, cannabis consumption has been legal since July 1, 2017, following voter approval in the November 2016 election. However, just because Marijuana is legal doesn’t mean that anyone can use it anywhere without consequences. There are events, matter of law, alcohol restrictions, menu regulations, and country-wide considerations that affect pets and states and raise essential questions about where and how cannabis can be used legally. 

Understanding Nevada marijuana laws is crucial to avoiding penalties, violations, or criminal charges. This blog will break down laws regarding possession, sale, consumption, transportation, and restrictions, providing information and answers for residents and tourists alike. Whether you’re in Las Vegas or elsewhere, this English content will help you understand much about the regulations so that locals, businesses, and visitors can stay informed. 

Marijuana Laws in Nevada

The Nevada marijuana laws allow resident adults 21 and older to purchase, possess, and consume cannabis legally. Still, the state laws in the United States have specific guidelines and enforcement rules that must be followed to avoid violation. Understanding these laws is crucial to minimizing the effect of any legal consequences, whether at a casino, hotel or on the street.

Possession Laws

• Adults 21 and older legally possess:
  • One ounce of marijuana flower
  • Up to 1/8 ounce of cannabis concentrates (THC extracts, oils, waxes, etc.)
• Medical marijuana patients may be allowed higher possession limits based on their medical needs, giving them access to more cannabis products. However, they must keep account of legal restrictions to avoid a fine. As posts about medical cannabis spread across the world, patients need to stay informed about evolving regulations. 
• Carrying more than the legal amount is considered a criminal offense and can lead to legal penalties, as the prohibition of excessive possession remains in effect. Whether in Nevada or other places like Canada, voters have influenced different versions of cannabis laws. Checking a reliable site for the latest availability updates is essential to staying compliant. 

Where to Buy Marijuana in Las Vegas

Legal cannabis dispensaries in Clark County and across Nevada sell marijuana products, including:

• Flower
• Edibles
• Pre-rolls
• Concentrates
• THC-infused drinks

Purchasing from unlicensed sellers is illegal and can lead to serious legal consequences, as this version of the law is strictly enforced. To legally buy cannabis, a patient must go to a licensed place and provide the necessary proof of age or medical need. This regulation is essential to maintaining safety and compliance on land where cannabis laws are issued. 

Where Can You Use Marijuana in Las Vegas?

Although weed is legal in Nevada, there are strict rules about where you can smoke, vape, or consume edibles. Regional locations have specific restrictions, and public consumption views vary across cities. The law regulates the types of cannabis use allowed in certain areas, with a range of rules depending on the dinner setting and other things to consider before consuming. 

Illegal Places to Use Cannabis

• Casinos, hotels, and resorts
• Public streets, sidewalks, and parks
• Bars, lounges, and nightclubs (unless licensed as a cannabis consumption lounge)
• Vehicles (even if parked)
• Federal property, including national parks and government buildings

Consumption Lounges in Nevada

As of January 1, 2024, Nevada law permits cannabis consumption lounges, where adults can legally smoke or vape weed. However, these lounges must obtain proper state approval and business licenses.

Driving Under the Influence of Marijuana

Driving under the influence of Marijuana is illegal in Las Vegas and throughout Nevada. If a person is caught driving with THC in their system, they may face DUI charges, requiring legal assistance such as DUI Defense to navigate the consequences. 

Penalties for a Marijuana DUI in Nevada:

• First offense: Fines, license suspension, and mandatory drug education.
• Second offense: Harsher fines, longer license suspension, and possible jail time.
• Third offense or more: Felony DUI charges with severe consequences.

Can You Grow Marijuana in Nevada?

Cannabis cultivation is strictly regulated. Only medical marijuana patients who live more than 25 miles from a dispensary may legally grow their plants. The state law does not allow recreational users to cultivate cannabis at home unless they meet these requirements. Violations of cultivation laws could lead to serious legal consequences, potentially requiring Drug Conspiracy Defense to address criminal charges.

Legal Penalties for Illegal Possession or Sale

Even though Marijuana is legal, breaking Nevada’s marijuana laws can result in penalties, fines, and criminal charges.

• Possessing more than the legal amount Can lead to misdemeanor or felony charges.
• Selling cannabis without a license: Considered a serious criminal offense.
• Using Marijuana in restricted places: Fines and possible legal action.

If you are facing possession or distribution charges, it is highly recommended that you consult with an experienced drug crimes defense attorney.

Marijuana and Firearm Laws

Under federal law, marijuana use and firearm ownership do not mix. Even though cannabis is legal in Nevada, the federal government considers marijuana use to be a disqualifier for firearm ownership. If someone is caught owning a firearm while using cannabis, they may face federal charges.

Transporting Marijuana in Nevada

While it is legal to purchase and possess Marijuana, it is illegal to transport cannabis across state lines. Taking cannabis out of Nevada, even to another state where it is legal, is a federal offense.

• Driving with Marijuana is legal only if it is in a sealed container.
• Open containers in a vehicle can lead to fines and penalties.
• Marijuana cannot be taken through airport security.

Tourism and Marijuana in Las Vegas

Many tourists visit Las Vegas and want to know how cannabis laws apply to them. The laws apply equally to residents and visitors.

• Tourists can buy Marijuana at licensed dispensaries.
• Hotels and casinos do not allow cannabis use.
• Public consumption can lead to fines or penalties.

With the recent approval of consumption lounges, tourists now have designated places to consume Marijuana while visiting Las Vegas legally.

Impact of Marijuana Legalization on Nevada Businesses

The legal cannabis industry in Nevada has brought in millions of dollars in tax revenue, benefiting state programs, education, and public health initiatives.

• Dispensaries and cannabis businesses must follow strict licensing requirements.
• Cannabis lounges are a new opportunity for business growth in tourism and hospitality.
• Employers can still enforce drug-free workplace policies, even though Marijuana is legal.

Conclusion

While Marijuana is legal in Las Vegas, there are strict laws and regulations governing purchase, possession, consumption, and transportation. Tourists and residents must follow state laws to avoid violations, penalties, or criminal charges.

If you or someone you know is facing marijuana-related charges, the experienced Drug Crimes Defense attorneys at Lipp Law LLC can help. Whether it’s possession, DUI, or drug conspiracy defense, we provide legal guidance to protect your rights and future. Contact Lipp Law LLC today for a consultation on Nevada marijuana enforcement laws.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can You Travel with Marijuana Within Nevada?

Yes, you can legally transport Marijuana within Nevada as long as it remains within the legal possession limits (1 ounce of flower or 1/8 ounce of concentrates). However:

• Cannabis must be kept in a sealed container while in a vehicle.
• Open containers of Marijuana in a car can result in fines.
• It is illegal to consume cannabis in a moving vehicle, even as a passenger.

2. Can Employers Fire You for Using Marijuana in Nevada?

Yes, Nevada employers can enforce drug-free workplace policies. Even though cannabis is legal for recreational use, employers still have the right to:

• Test for THC as part of pre-employment drug screenings.
• Prohibit use while on duty.
• Fire employees for testing positive, depending on company policy.

However, some protections exist for medical marijuana patients, especially in cases of reasonable accommodations.

3. Are There Medical Marijuana Reciprocity Laws in Nevada?

Yes, Nevada has medical marijuana reciprocity, meaning out-of-state medical marijuana patients can legally purchase cannabis from Nevada dispensaries if:

• Their home state has a medical marijuana program.
• They provide valid proof of their patient status.

However, possession and purchase limits still follow Nevada state laws, even for out-of-state patients.

4. What Are the Penalties for Underage Marijuana Possession?

Anyone under 21 caught with any amount of cannabis faces:

• Fines and mandatory drug education for first-time offenders.
• Criminal charges (misdemeanor or felony) for repeat offenses or more significant amounts.
• Possible driver’s license suspension for minors.

Medical marijuana patients under 21 are an exception if they have a valid medical card.

5. Can You Get a Marijuana Conviction Expunged in Nevada?

Yes, Nevada allows record sealing (expungement) for certain past marijuana-related convictions, particularly if:

• The offense is no longer considered illegal under current laws.
• Enough time has passed since the conviction (varies by offense).

Those with past convictions should consult a lawyer to explore expungement options.

6. How Does Nevada Tax Marijuana Sales?

Nevada imposes the following taxes on cannabis sales:

• 15% excise tax on wholesale transactions (paid by cultivators).
• 10% retail tax on recreational marijuana sales.

Tax revenue supports education, healthcare, and public safety programs.

Medical marijuana purchases are not subject to the 10% retail tax.

7. Are Cannabis-Infused Products Treated Differently Than Marijuana Flower?

Yes, Nevada has specific regulations for edibles, concentrates, and THC-infused drinks, including:

• Edibles and drinks must have clearly labeled THC content.
• Edible serving sizes are capped at 10mg THC per serving and 100mg per package.
• More substantial potency limits apply to concentrates and vapes.

Consumption laws apply equally to flowers, edibles, and concentrates.

8. Can You Own a Marijuana Business in Nevada as an Out-of-State Resident?

It is possible but highly regulated. To own a Nevada cannabis business, you must:

• Obtain a state-issued cannabis license.
• Pass background checks and financial disclosures.
• Meet Nevada residency requirements for majority ownership.

Out-of-state investors can partner with local operators but may face additional restrictions.

9. Can You Be Evicted for Using Marijuana in a Rental Property?

Yes, landlords can prohibit cannabis use on their property, even if the tenant is following Nevada law. Rental agreements can include:

• No-smoking policies that include Marijuana.
• Eviction clauses for illegal drug activity (which may apply due to federal law).

Medical marijuana patients may have some legal protections, but landlords still have authority over their property rules.

10. How Does Federal Law Impact Nevada’s Marijuana Industry?

Since Marijuana remains illegal federally, it creates challenges for Nevada businesses and consumers, such as:

• Cannabis businesses cannot use banks (cash-only industry).
• Federal employees and contractors can be fired for marijuana use.
• Transporting cannabis across state lines remains a federal crime.

Despite state legalization, federal laws still create risks for certain cannabis-related activities.