Marijuana has changed a lot in Washington, D.C., in the past few years. As one of the first places to legalize cannabis for recreational use, it has become a popular spot for cannabis users.
First, the district legalized medical marijuana. Then, they allowed possession of small amounts for recreational use. But before you come to D.C. and smoke, you need to know where you can smoke weed. The capital has stricter cannabis laws than some other places, but you’ll be fine once you understand them.
This article will teach you all about Washington, D.C.’s marijuana laws. We’ll cover where you shouldn’t smoke and the best places to enjoy cannabis.
Smoking is not allowed on federal property or in public. We’ll explain what counts as public space and the marijuana laws in the city. Now, let’s get into the details.
What You Need to Know About DC’s Marijuana Laws
If you’re traveling or moving to Washington, D.C., you might wonder, “Is it legal to smoke weed in D.C.?”
The good news is, yes, it’s legal to use weed recreationally in Washington, D.C.
In 2015, D.C. passed Initiative 71 (I71), letting adults 21 and older have and use marijuana at home. Although marijuana sales remain illegal, it’s possible to obtain cannabis through I-71 shops that offer it as a gift with purchase. Pot United is one of our top picks for I-71-compliant dispensaries, offering a wide range of cannabis products.
We’ll dive into the details of I-71 later, but first, let’s look at some places where you can enjoy cannabis.
Places to Smoke Weed in D.C.
If you are visiting D.C. for the first time and are excited to smoke marijuana, you’ll need to know where you can do so without dealing with law enforcement. Unfortunately, you can’t just light up anywhere. But the good news is there are spots in D.C. where you can enjoy the sweet aroma of weed with fellow tokers nearby.
Let’s explore some safe spots to smoke in Washington, D.C.
Safe Spots to Smoke in D.C.
Smoking weed on private property or in your own home is the best way to avoid any issues. However, smoking outside under the moonlight or in the sunshine can be a more enjoyable experience. Even though smoking weed is still illegal in D.C., some public places are more tolerant than others.
Although these local spots are considered public places, many smokers have come here to light up without getting into trouble. They include:
Night Clubs
Some nightclubs and rooftop bars in D.C. allow smoking weed. Rooftop sections are often more relaxed about smoking, especially at night.
Northwest D.C.
U Street is a popular area for smokers. It’s a lively public spot with bars, nightclubs, and a vibrant cultural scene.
Georgetown
Georgetown has several good spots for smoking. The Georgetown waterfront is a well-known area where you can enjoy the view while smoking. It’s generally safe to smoke near the water.
Eighteenth Street Lounge
This local lounge is a spot where you can usually smoke without issues.
The Alleyways of U Street
For a more private experience, you can smoke in the alleyways off U Street. This area is popular with other smokers, too.
The Congressional Cemetery
Located in Southeast D.C., this peaceful and quiet spot is a favorite among smokers.
Weed-Friendly Hotels
Smokers traveling to Washington, D.C. may face challenges finding accommodations that suit their needs. Most hotels have strict non-smoking policies, and openly advertising cannabis-friendly options is unlikely. However, some hotels offer private balconies, allowing for discreet outdoor smoking. Additionally, Airbnb rentals often provide more flexibility, with a number of properties in D.C. catering to cannabis consumers.
InterContinental Washington D.C., Wharf
This 5-star hotel, just a mile from the Capitol, offers suites with balconies. You can smoke on the patio if you choose a suite with this option.
Hotel Madera
Located in Dupont Circle, Hotel Madera has some rooms with weed-friendly balconies. It’s also pet-friendly, so you can bring your pets with you.
The Washington Plaza Hotel
About half a mile from the White House, this hotel offers budget-friendly rooms with 420-friendly balconies overlooking the pool.
The Fairmont Hotel
Located in the West End near Georgetown, this hotel has balconies overlooking the courtyard where you can enjoy cannabis. The hotel also has the Juniper Restaurant for dining.
The Watergate Hotel
Located near George Washington University, this historic hotel offers deluxe rooms with balconies where you can smoke.
Alternatively, consider checking out bed and breakfasts or Airbnbs in D.C. that are friendly to cannabis users.
Where You Can’t Smoke in D.C.
Here are some places where smoking weed is illegal in D.C. You don’t want to be caught smoking in these areas.
Smoking in public spaces is not allowed. Think of it like carrying an open container of alcohol in public—both are treated seriously. D.C. has similar rules for marijuana use. It’s considered a criminal offense to smoke in the following places:
- Public housing projects
- Stores
- Vehicles
- Federal property
- Clubs or bars
- Parking lots
- National parks
- Restaurants
- Streets or alleys
- Sidewalks
- Parks
Can You Smoke in Public in Washington DC?
Technically, you’re not supposed to smoke in public in D.C., but there are some safe spots around the city. Your best option is to smoke in a private area. You can also ask locals about specific areas or streets.
If you do smoke, be mindful of others and consume responsibly, especially around children. The primary restriction is federal land. Since marijuana is a Schedule I drug under federal law, it’s illegal to smoke on federal property. In D.C., about 29% of the land is federally owned, including places like the Smithsonian museums. So, avoid smoking near or outside these museums.
Rules for Smoking Weed in D.C.
Yes, weed is legal in Washington, D.C., but there are still some rules to follow. Here are the basics according to Initiative 71 (I71):
- Adults 21 and over can have up to 2 ounces of marijuana and the necessary paraphernalia or rolling papers.
- Selling marijuana is not allowed, but you can give up to 1 ounce to another adult as a gift.
- Smoking is only permitted on private property. You cannot smoke in public or on federal property.
- Smoking in your car can lead to a DUI. Driving while high on marijuana is treated the same as an alcohol-related DUI.
- You can grow up to six plants, with a maximum of three allowed to have mature buds.
Conclusion
- Now that you know where to light up in D.C., let’s review the fundamental laws:
- You can carry up to two ounces of marijuana.
- It’s best to smoke at a private residence.
Buying marijuana is not allowed, but there are many I71-compliant stores where you can get cannabis as a gift legally. If you’re visiting and looking for places to smoke, you now have a better idea of where to go for a safe and enjoyable experience. Remember, most hotels have smoke-free policies, so use a balcony or rooftop if you stay at one.
For quality cannabis, Pot United is a well-regarded dispensary with premium pre-rolls, high-quality flowers, edibles, and more.
