At Embarc Dispensary, we understand that cannabis laws can sometimes be unclear, especially if you’re visiting from another state. To properly navigate the oftentimes gray areas associated with cannabis regulations, we’ve created a guide so when you’re enjoying your sesh in Lake Tahoe.
Considering that the border between California and Nevada goes right through Tahoe, there’s also regulations concerning carrying cannabis over state lines. We highly recommend always checking state and local laws concerning cannabis before sparking a joint or lighting up in public.
Here’s a brief breakdown of cannabis laws in Tahoe, California, and Nevada.
The only legal way to buy cannabis in the Lake Tahoe area (Nevada and California) is from a state-licensed store or dispensary.
It is illegal to buy cannabis from any other source. Also, you are not allowed to smoke or consume cannabis in a public place — unless it has been approved by a local jurisdiction, like a smoking lounge attached to a dispensary.
We know it’s tempting to bring your bud with you to Tahoe’s many parks and natural landmarks, however, it is still illegal to consume cannabis on state lands.
1. Smoking or ingesting cannabis is only legal on private property — this is mainly relegated to inside your home, in your backyard and in hotels that allow smoking cannabis
2. It is illegal to smoke on the beaches of Lake Tahoe, in a car and in the backcountry.
3. Do not smoke in a state or federally controlled areas. Feel like lighting those prerolls at Emerald Bay State Park? Don’t, or you risk receiving a fine.
California has guidelines and restrictions to follow when buying and consuming cannabis. So before you open Google to search for a “dispensary near me,” inform yourself of the basic laws surrounding cannabis and keep your smoke sesh free of law enforcement. Here’s a breakdown of the major cannabis regulations that consumers must abide by.
1. Individuals must be 21 or older to buy, possess or use cannabis. However, if you’re a California resident with a medical card and valid ID, you can purchase cannabis at medical marijuana dispensaries at 18 years old.
2. Weed cannot be given or sold to anyone under the age of 21. Again, this law is adjusted for those 18 year olds who have legally obtained a California medical card.
3. You cannot consume cannabis in public, so think twice about passing that infused blunt outside of your ski resort.
4. Driving under the influence of cannabis is illegal. There’s no reason to drive while high, opt for a ride service like Uber.
5. It is illegal to bring cannabis across state lines. Do not buy weed in California and bring it back to Nevada with you. Even if your home state has legal weed, transporting products is still illegal.
6. Consuming weed in any form on state-owned land and national parks is illegal. Opt for a gummy, don’t risk getting ticketed. Be smart and follow the laws.
1. In Nevada, recreational consumers can legally possess 1 ounce of flower or up to 3.5 grams of concentrates and edibles.
2. In Nevada, up to 1 oz of cannabis or ⅛ oz of concentrate can be gifted to individuals 21+ years of age
3. You may only consume on private property with the permission of the owner/landlord/establishment.
4. You cannot drive and consume cannabis. WARNING: Vehicles and other property may be seized for controlled substance violations. The state of Nevada has 60 days after seizure to file a forfeiture proceeding.
Under the “Adult Use of Marijuana Act” there are several instances outlined where individuals can be subject to misdemeanors, felonies, fines, and jail time. Be smart and follow the laws. If you’re unsure if you’re within the legal limits, check online before getting yourself into trouble.
1. Possession: It’s legal to possess up to one ounce, or 28 grams of cannabis flower at any given time. However, if you are carrying more than the legal amount, you risk up to 10 days in jail and a $500 fine. If you’re carrying enough to be perceived as having the “intent to distribute” you risk landing yourself in jail for up to 6 months. That’s a pretty steep penalty, so make sure you’re carrying the legal limit at all times.
2. Sale or Delivery: It’s legal to gift someone up to one ounce or 28 grams of cannabis. You cannot sell cannabis without a proper license from the state, and doing so could cost you $500 or 6 months jail time. If you mistakenly gift or sell cannabis to a minor, it’s a felony with up to 7 years imprisonment.
3. Driving: It is unlawful to drive under the influence. Getting charged with a controlled substance offense could mean losing driving privileges.
The Nevada Cannabis Control Board outlines several instances where individuals can be subject to misdemeanors, felonies, fines, and jail time. If you’re unsure if you’re within the legal limits, check online before getting yourself into trouble.
1. Possession: If you are carrying more than the legal amount of 1 oz, or you’re consuming in public, you risk receiving a misdemeanor and a $600 fine. If you’re carrying enough (over 1 oz) you risk landing yourself a felony, potential jail time, and fines. That’s a pretty steep penalty, so make sure you’re carrying the legal limit at all times.
2. Sale or Delivery: It’s legal to gift someone 21+ up to one ounce or 28 grams of cannabis. You cannot sell cannabis without a proper license from the state, and doing so is a felony. If you mistakenly gift or sell cannabis to a minor, it’s a felony with a mandatory minimum sentence of 5 years imprisonment.
3. Driving: It is unlawful to drive under the influence. Getting charged with a controlled substance offense could mean losing driving privileges and getting your vehicle seized by the state.
At Embarc Dispensary, we value education. Part of cannabis education is understanding the regulations that you’re subject to in your state – especially in places like Tahoe, where there’s an abundance of tourism and differing laws between different sections of the city, understanding what’s legal can be challenging.
In California at our Lake Tahoe Dispensary, we are fortunate to have safe, legal access to cannabis products. At Embarc, we carry a wide variety of high quality products, from flower to concentrates, edibles, topicals, tinctures, and more.
Shop our shelves, stop at our flower bar, and chat with our friendly Guides. We’re happy to help you find the perfect, legal cannabis products for your needs.
