Can You Smoke Weed in DC? Best (Legal) Smoke Spots
Updated: Aug 21
Over the years, dozens of people have been arrested for smoking marijuana in Washington, DC. But wait, didn't weed become legal across the capital some time ago? Yes. But unlike other parts of the United States, Washington D.C. has some very strict rules regulating the smoking of cannabis. This blog post addresses long-standing questions like "Can you smoke weed in D.C.?" and provides a list of hotspots for marijuana users to explore.
Can You Smoke Weed in DC?
The answer to this question isn't straightforward. Yes, you can technically smoke weed in DC. But there are still a few things you need to know before indulging. Below, we outline what you need to know about smoking weed in the District.
So Is it Legal to Smoke Weed in D.C.?
Is it legal to smoke marijuana in D.C.? Smoking pot is completely legal in D.C. However, there are certain rules. These rules must be followed to a tee to ensure you stay on the good side of the law.
What is the penalty for smoking marijuana in public in D.C.?
Smoking weed in public is illegal and has a penalty for anyone who defaults. The highest sentence for smoking pot in public is 60 days in jail or a maximum $500 fine. Most times, first-time offenders may be asked to do community service and have their sentence dismissed.
Where can I smoke weed in D.C.?
Just so we’re clear – smoking weed in DC is legal as long as you are NOT smoking in public places and on federal property. This means smoking on private property is allowed, but smoking in privately accessible public places like a store or bar isn't. But of course, note that some bars might let you smoke on their property - if you know the right people.
"Safe" Places to Smoke Weed In Public
We get it. Sometimes, a little fresh air and change of scenery can make your sesh so much better. Although it is illegal to smoke weed in public in DC, smokers have found some areas that the usual rules don't apply to but are still considered public meeting spots. Below, we list some places where you can smoke without the risk of getting in trouble with the law. Psst.. you didn't hear it from us.
1. Rooftop Bars/Nightclubs
Some Nightclubs in D.C. are lenient and allow their patrons to spark a joint or two on their property. Your chances will be higher (no pun intended) at an outdoor or rooftop location.
2. Georgetown
Georgetown, DC, is one of the safest places to smoke because it has many smoke shops. Although there have been a few times when the police restricted cannabis use, people usually don't get in trouble for smoking near the waterfront area.
3. U Street
U Street, in Northwest D.C., is a cultural and nightlife focal point. U Street has alleyways that are less crowded than other parts of the city and can be used as a smoking area. After your smoke session, you may visit some attractions to keep yourself occupied.
4. Congressional Cemetery
The congressional cemetery located in Southeast DC is known as one of the safest spots to light up, despite the small risk of a wave of flesh-eating zombies. You're less likely to be disturbed due to the tranquil atmosphere and lack of people.
5. Eighteenth Street Lounge
This is a classic spot for safe smoking. It is a longstanding chillout lounge for smokers and has been known to turn a blind eye to smokers.
These are a few places in DC that tend to be more relaxing when it comes to weed laws. As long as you remain low-key and don't go near families or other people, the police shouldn't bother you. Just use common courtesy and enjoy your weed discreetly.
Where NOT to Smoke Weed in DC
Once again – smoking weed publically is NOT legal in Washington DC. So roll up at your own risk. Now, we will list the places where smoking your pre-rolls will get you into BIG trouble.
1. Federal Land or Federal Property
Smoking is prohibited on federal land for obvious reasons. Law enforcement has restricted the use of marijuana in parks, military bases, public housing projects, and The White House. As a result, smoking is illegal on any federal property in Washington, DC. Keep in mind that 29% of the city's total area is made up of federal property, so be cautious about where you smoke.
2. Rock Creek Park
Rock Creek Park is a city park in Washington, DC's Northwest quadrant. It's an excellent location to encounter nature and all it has to offer, but it's not a safe place to smoke a few joints. Rock Creek is part of the National Park Service system and is, therefore, under federal jurisdiction.
3. Federal Public Housing
This shouldn't cross your mind because, duh, it literally has the word "federal" in it. Asides from Federal housing, a landlord who is against the use of cannabis on his property can restrict you from smoking.
4. In Your Car
People consider their cars as private property and might decide to smoke weed in their vehicles. However, this is also illegal. D.U.I. (Marijuana) is a severe violation, and it's handled just like a D.U.I. (Alcohol). D.U.I. charges a max penalty of $1000 or up to 180 days in jail for first-time offenders.
The Safest Place to Smoke Weed in Washington DC
Honestly, the laws make it seem like you could go to jail for simply talking about weed. However, the safest way to avoid breaking the law is by smoking in your home or at a friend’s place.
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How to Get Weed in DC. (Legally)
Getting weed in DC shouldn't cause you trouble as long as you follow the rules. These rules are based on Initiative 71, which states that weed can't be sold commercially for recreational purposes. To acquire weed for medical purposes, you can walk up to a medical marijuana dispensary and purchase a legal amount. But to do this, you'll need to provide your medical marijuana card.
To acquire weed for recreational purposes, you should also visit an i71 compliant gifting shop or cannabis shop, but this time, you will have to go through the process of either making a donation or purchasing an item that's not a cannabis product. The cannabis will be given to you as a gift instead of a purchase.
All you need to get free marijuana gifts from us is:
21+ State Issued ID
Cash payment
Here's how to order weed from The Garden:
Select your free marijuana gift of choice
Purchase a token
Each token will help support one of our organizations like the T.R.I.G.G.E.R Project, Three Part Harmony Farm, & more.
We are open for in-store shopping or you can skip the line and preorder online today! You can read our Complete Guide to Getting Weed in DC here for more information.
What is Initiative 71?
You've probably heard of Initiative 71 before. And before you hop to conclusions, it totally has nothing to do with Area 51. (We thought so too) Initiative 71 is the legalization of minor amounts of weed for personal use. It is a voter-approved (64.87% approval) ballot initiative that authorized the consumption of weed for recreational purposes.
Conclusion
We understand that the laws governing the use of weed in DC are very strict. But to stay out of trouble with law enforcement, these laws have to be followed. Some of these laws include;
Not smoking on federal property or in public places.
Not smoking in your car.
Smoking in the privacy of your own property.
Not being under the influence of marijuana while driving.
In this day and age, it can be tough to find a place to get weed if you don't have a medical card, as most of them have been shut down because of failure to meet Initiative 71's rules. Luckily, we at The Garden can help you with this. The Garden DC is the highest-rated I71 Compliant shop (4.4/5 stars on Google) that provides its customers with top-notch cannabis products. This is why we are the most trusted cannabis shop in the city.
Don’t be a bad friend. Share this article with your inner circle so you don't have to bail them out of jail. Get FREE Premium Top-Quality Marijuana gifts in DC with token purchases. Call us today at (202) 815-5663 or explore The Garden menu online now.