What You Need to Know About Public Cannabis Consumption in Boston

Cannabis

Boston is a popular city for cannabis, and it’s no wonder. The city’s interest in weed has surged over the years. In fact, the Marijuana Policy Project, which contributed to the eventual legalization of recreational marijuana in 2016, was especially active in the city center, and both our Boston dispensary and the weed community have grown exponentially ever since. However, if you’re ready to head out into this thriving town and blaze, there are a few things you should know.

Despite the favorable environment for cannabis products in Boston, there are some rules to follow regarding consumption. From the types of products and how they are stored, carried, and consumed to the potential consequences of breaking the law, anyone who is considering planning a weed-based excursion into the city needs to stay informed.

Can You Consume Weed in Public?

The short answer is that, according to Massachusetts law, it is illegal to consume weed on public property. Public places that are prohibited (but might not seem like they are) include parks, beachfronts, and Boston dispensary parking lots. It is also not permitted to smoke on federal land, so you cannot go to a national park to avoid this rule.

The rule covering tobacco also covers weed. If you cannot smoke in an establishment (even a private one), you cannot use marijuana. This rules out restaurants and bars, too.

However, just because consuming weed in public is not allowed doesn’t mean you have no options for exploring Boston and pairing your favorite strain with the trip.

Are All Types of Cannabis Prohibited?

Yes, all cannabis products are governed by this same rule. That means smoking, vaping, tinctures, edibles, and more all fall under the public restriction. You may possess these items in public as long as they meet the government’s other regulations, but you may not consume them.

The law says that you are allowed to carry up to an ounce of weed on your person, though you can store up to 10 ounces at home. If you travel with it, you cannot cross state lines, and it needs to be stored in a secure container that is inaccessible while you drive. Most people put it in the trunk or lock it in their glove compartment (if they have one that has a lock).

Are you a medical marijuana user? Keep your items at home! Even though they might be medically helpful, they are also prohibited in public under Massachusetts law.

Where You Can Consume Marijuana

If you can’t consume weed in public, what are your options? Fortunately, you can still pair your Boston trip with great cannabis. Here are some ideas:

• Puff Pass Paint and similar mini-excursions offer opportunities to engage in weed activities on private property. Because smoking tobacco is allowed, marijuana is also permitted.
• Tour vehicles can count as private property, and weed tours allow you to smoke (as long as you’re in the vehicle) while you enjoy the sights.
• The Summit Lounge is a bar environment that specifically allows marijuana consumption. It requires a membership, but signing up is easy.
• Dinner at Mary’s and other restaurants offers weed-infused meals, which are legal to consume on the premises.

Even if you can’t just sit on any park bench and light up, you still have plenty of choices in Boston!

Penalties for Breaking the Rules

While the lively cannabis community is a proud part of Boston’s population, the city still treats violations seriously. Those found transporting marijuana in an open container (that is, the seal is broken or some of it has already been used) can be fined hundreds of dollars.

Similarly, a person caught smoking in a public place or on federal land could be fined $300 or more (for the first offense) and have their cannabis products seized. More significant infractions (for example, trying to take weed across state lines) can lead to harsher penalties, as can repeat offenses of trying to partake in public. Those who have had multiple run-ins with law enforcement may even have to serve time in prison.

Stop by a Pure Oasis Boston Dispensary

Understanding when and where to consume cannabis is just as important as dosing correctly and using your products safely. To stock up before your next smoke session (on private property, of course), stop by Pure Oasis. Our initial location was Boston’s first recreational dispensary, and we are proud to continue serving our neighborhoods today. Our friendly budtenders can recommend products that align with your tastes so you can try something new or point you toward old favorites if you’re looking for something specific. Partake responsibly and enjoy all that Boston has to offer!