Fun Places to Smoke Weed in DC
Before you decide to light up in any part of the capital, you should know where to safely smoke weed in DC.
We’ll be discussing where you can legally smoke recreational marijuana in Washington DC. Read on and you’ll soon be smoking pot in DC!
February 2015 is considered a very important date by recreational users of marijuana. It marks the passing of Initiative71. Initiative 71 legalized recreational marijuana in DC.
Now, you can buy and smoke weed freely around the city. But those who dreamed of rolling up in DC, smoking weed, and not worrying about it were quickly dispelled.
For I71 compliance reasons, it is still against the law to smoke on public or federal grounds. I71 was made for those who smoke cannabis at home.
Before we discuss where you can smoke weed legally in DC, let’s look at what is considered “public” under current law.
WHAT TYPE OF SMOKING IS CONSIDERED “IN PUBLIC?” UNDER the LAW?
Before we move on to where can you legally smoke weed in DC? Let’s first discuss where to not smoke.
Initiative 71, which is similar to POCA (the law regarding open containers of alcohol) was also modeled.
Like POCA it’s a crime for someone to smoke marijuana on a street, alleyway, or sidewalk.
It is also unlawful to smoke marijuana at a public location (like a club, shop, or bar).
It is also illegal in a vehicle to smoke pot. DUI for marijuana, like alcohol-based DUIs, remains a serious crime.
PLACES TO SMOKE WEED IN DC
Most people don’t keep up with every law. But there are some places that are known to be more permissive in regards to smoking weed in DC.
- Georgetown around the water
- Nightclubs such as Rose Bar
- Eighteenth Street Lounge
- The Alley Ways that U Street Offers
- Northwest DC
These are a handful of areas that have been less likely DCs to crack down against weed laws.
Most people can still smoke marijuana on the streets, provided they are careful. Be aware that you could be exposed to serious health risks if your decision is made. Rose Bar has an amazing backroom!
Don’t hesitate to ask the locals! Ask a neighbor!
As long as your behavior is discreet and you don’t have any children, the police won’t bother you. Smoke weed responsibly and be polite. Do not go out of your way to be a pain in the ass while smoking and you should be fine.
WHY ITS IMPORTANT THAT WE UNDERSTAND WHERE RECREATIONAL WEED IS LEGAL IN WASHINGTON DC.
It is important for you to know that the maximum punishment for smoking marijuana in public is 60-day imprisonment or a maximum of $500.00 fine.
First-time offenders can often be granted a diversion. The prosecution could dismiss the case by offering a diversion. In exchange, the defendant would complete community service or pay fines.
Repeat offenders could face even more severe penalties. There have not been many marijuana cases prosecuted in Washington, D.C.
WHERE SMOKE RECREATIONAL WEED In WASHINGTON DC?
Private residences are the best place to smoke marijuana. The landlord can ban marijuana use in apartments or townhouses. It is a crime if you use it in public places, such as coffee shops, bars, or federal public housing.
Because marijuana is still illegal at the federal level and can be used to make arrests, federal law enforcers may still use the city’s police force to detain anyone found with any amount of marijuana over an ounce.
Although marijuana is legal to be smoked in your private home, it remains a federal offense. It is also important that you know that certain areas of DC, which are under federal jurisdiction, prohibit the use and possession of marijuana.
WHAT DO YOU CONSIDER FEDERAL PROPERTY IN DC?
DC is home to 18 square miles of federal government-controlled land. This makes up 29 percent of the city’s total surface.
These include places like military property, national parks, monuments, or The White House.
Federal law enforcement can take action against individuals who smoke weed in these locations. These are big no-no areas and we do not suggest going anywhere near them with anything.
You could also get a DUI for smoking marijuana in your car.
Let’s clarify.
WHAT ARE THE PENALTIES FOR DUI WITH DCWEED?
Driving while high or under influence for marijuana is the exact same as driving drunk or impaired by alcohol in DC.
It is treated seriously. DUI charges, if you are convicted of the offense for the first time, can carry a maximum penalty up to $1,000.00 fine and 180 days in prison. DUI is a misdemeanor. It does not carry a felony charge, so it doesn’t matter how many times you are arrested.
DWI and DUI in DC cases are the only offenses that require minimum jail sentences. It’s best not to drive under the influence.
STAYING
Let’s now wrap things up.
Adults aged 21 and older can have two ounces or less. DC can accommodate up to six marijuana-growing plants. Only three marijuana plants are allowed to be in the blooming stage.
The legal purchase of marijuana in DC remains illegal. However, it can still be gifted alongside a piece or art.
Many storefronts follow all the rules for staying I71 compliant. You can trust them when you’re looking to buy weed in DC.
Conclusion
It’s possible to keep out of legal trouble and still reap the many benefits I71 has provided recreational users. Check out some of the areas or reach out to us via message or Instagram!