Even if marijuana products are legal, there are still some restrictions when it comes to consuming and buying weed in DC.
This article provides a clear and comprehensive understanding of the current marijuana laws and how to buy and consume recreational weed legally and safely in the city.
Read on to know ins and outs of obtaining marijuana in along with some helpful tips and tricks to make the most of your cannabis experience.
Important Consideration Before Buying Weed in DC
In November 2014, Initiative 71 was approved by DC voters, legalizing the possession and cultivation of recreational marijuana in the District of Columbia. The law was enacted on February 26, 2015, allowing individuals aged 21 and older to possess and use marijuana for personal enjoyment within certain limits.
Under Initiative 71, adults 21 and older can legally:
- Possess up to two ounces of marijuana
- Cultivate up to six cannabis plants at home (with a maximum of three mature plants)
- Give away up to one ounce of marijuana to another adult 21 or older.
Since the passing of Initiative 71, the DC marijuana market has grown exponentially, with Washington, DC, residents and visitors alike seeking out ways to enjoy legal weed in DC.
The Catch: No Buying or Selling Recreational Marijuana
One of the peculiar aspects of DC’s marijuana laws is that while possession and consumption of recreational marijuana are legal, the buying and selling of it are not. This means there are no recreational dispensaries or shops where you can simply walk in and purchase weed, as there are in other states with legalized marijuana. However, there are some creative ways to go about buying weed in DC, which we will explore later in this guide.
The law was designed this way due to a unique set of circumstances and political considerations in the District of Columbia.
No Smoking in Public Spaces
Although you can possess and use marijuana in DC, consuming it in public spaces is still illegal. This includes places where you might be tempted to smoke weed or engage in other forms of consumption, such as parks, streets, sidewalks, bars, restaurants, and any other area accessible to the general public.
Fines and penalties can be imposed on individuals caught smoking or consuming marijuana in public, so you must be mindful of where you choose to partake.
The Right Ways to Get Weed in DC
Although there isn’t a traditional Washington, DC, recreational dispensary, the thriving DC marijuana market offers various options to obtain weed in DC, such as gifting and medical dispensaries.
Medical Marijuana: A Legitimate Option
One way to legally obtain marijuana in DC is through the medical marijuana program. To qualify for medical marijuana, you must have a qualifying condition as determined by the Department of Health.
Some common qualifying conditions that a medical marijuana patient may have include:
- Chronic pain
- Cancer
- HIV/AIDS
- Multiple sclerosis
- Glaucoma
- Epilepsy
Obtaining a DC Medical Marijuana Card
If you have one of the qualifying conditions, you can apply for a DC medical marijuana card. To do this, you’ll need to consult a registered physician who can recommend medical marijuana use.
Once your application is approved, you can access medical marijuana legally from licensed medical marijuana dispensaries in DC.
Buying from Licensed Dispensaries
With a valid medical marijuana card, you can purchase marijuana from any licensed dispensary in the District of Columbia, also known as DC weed stores. These dispensaries offer a variety of strains, products, and consumption methods, so you’ll have plenty of options to choose from based on your medical needs and personal preferences.
Gifting: The Creative Solution
Due to the peculiar nature of DC’s marijuana laws, a “gray area” has emerged, allowing for the gifting of marijuana. As mentioned earlier, it’s legal to give away up to one ounce of marijuana to another adult 21 or older, but buying and selling recreational marijuana are still prohibited.
While there are no official Washington, DC, recreational dispensaries or DC weed shops for recreational marijuana, the gifting culture has allowed for a unique workaround.
How Gifting Works
Gifting typically involves purchasing a non-marijuana product, like a piece of art, a sticker, or even a ticket to an event, with the understanding that you’ll receive a “gift” of marijuana along with your purchase.
However, some businesses and individuals in DC have creatively navigated the law by offering non-marijuana products for sale and then including marijuana as a “free” gift with the transaction. Some even provide DC weed delivery services to make the process more convenient. However, recently, the DC council passed legislation that can penalize unlicensed gifting.
When gifting weed or participating in the gifting culture, it’s important to ensure a legal and safe gifting exchange:
- Both parties must be at least 21 years old
- The amount of cannabis gifts must be one ounce or less.
- Avoid discussing the exchange of money for marijuana directly.
- Always remember that marijuana is a “gift” accompanying the purchase of another product.
Exploring DC Smoke Shops
While buying recreational marijuana directly from a store is not permitted in DC, you can still visit and explore any local DC smoke shop. These shops offer a wide variety of smoking accessories, such as:
- Pipes
- Rolling papers
- Vaporizers
- Other cannabis-related products
Although they do not sell marijuana directly, they can help elevate your smoking experience by providing you with the necessary tools and knowledge.
Some DC smoke shops also sell CBD products, which are legal and do not produce the psychoactive effects associated with THC. Therefore, if you’re interested in trying cannabis products without the intoxicating effects, these shops can be a great resource.
Moreover, engaging with the staff at these shops can provide valuable information and tips about the local cannabis scene, smoking weed, and DC weed events, as well as insights into the ever-evolving landscape of marijuana laws in the District.
Moving Around with Marijuana: Stay on the Right Side of DC Weed Laws
When transporting marijuana in your car within DC, keep it in a sealed container, preferably in the trunk or another area that’s not easily accessible while driving. While it’s legal to possess up to two ounces of marijuana, driving under the influence of cannabis is still illegal and can result in severe penalties.
Always consume responsibly and avoid driving while intoxicated.
Crossing State Lines: A Word of Caution
It’s important to remember that marijuana laws vary from state to state, and DC cannabis laws do not apply once you cross state lines. For instance, carrying marijuana across state lines is illegal under federal law, even if you’re traveling to another state where marijuana is legal.
When you’re in DC, be sure to consume and enjoy your cannabis within the boundaries of the District, and avoid taking it with you when you leave the city.
Savor the DC Cannabis Experience Responsibly
Navigating the unique marijuana laws in DC can be a bit tricky, but armed with the knowledge provided in this guide, you should be well-prepared to obtain and enjoy weed legally and responsibly in the nation’s capital.
Remember to stay within the legal limits, respect the gifting culture, and prioritize safety and responsible consumption. By doing so, you’ll be able to fully appreciate the diverse and vibrant cannabis scene that DC has to offer.
Lastly, as you enjoy your time in Washington, DC, don’t hesitate to visit these smoke shops to learn more about the unique cannabis culture and enhance your overall experience in the nation’s capital.
Enjoy your time in the District, and happy toking!
