As marijuana legalization spreads across the United States, people are starting to wonder what the rules are for smoking weed in public places.
If you’re traveling to Illinois and planning to stay in a hotel, you may be wondering if you’re allowed to smoke weed outside on hotel property.
If you’re short on time, here’s a quick answer to your question: No, you cannot smoke weed outside a hotel in Illinois. However, there are some exceptions to this rule that we will explore in this article.
In this article, we will take a closer look at the laws surrounding marijuana use in Illinois and how they relate to hotels. We’ll also explore some of the risks and consequences of smoking weed outside on hotel property.
Marijuana Laws in Illinois
Illinois became the 11th state to legalize recreational marijuana on January 1, 2020. The state allows adults aged 21 and above to possess up to 30 grams of cannabis flower buds, edibles containing 500 milligrams of THC, or five grams of concentrate. However, it is important to note that marijuana is still illegal under federal law, and possession of marijuana on federal property remains a crime.
Recreational Marijuana Use
Illinois residents and non-residents can buy recreational marijuana legally from licensed dispensaries in the state. However, it is illegal to take marijuana outside the state, and it is illegal to sell marijuana without a license. Additionally, it is illegal to use marijuana in public places or in a motor vehicle, regardless of whether you are a driver or a passenger.
Medical Marijuana Use
Illinois legalized medical marijuana in 2013. Patients with qualifying medical conditions can get a medical marijuana card from the Illinois Department of Public Health and purchase marijuana from licensed dispensaries. Qualifying conditions include cancer, Crohn’s disease, glaucoma, HIV/AIDS, multiple sclerosis, Parkinson’s disease, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), among others.
Laws on Public Consumption
It is illegal to consume marijuana in public places such as parks, sidewalks, streets, schools, and restaurants. Smoking marijuana is also not allowed in hotel rooms or on hotel balconies, as hotels are considered public places. Violators of the public consumption laws can be fined up to $200 for the first offense, with increasing fines and possible jail time for subsequent offenses.
It is important to know the marijuana laws in Illinois before using or possessing marijuana in the state. For more information about Illinois marijuana laws, visit the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation’s website.
Smoking Weed Outside a Hotel
Hotel Rules and Policies
If you’re planning to smoke weed outside a hotel in Illinois, you should first check the hotel’s rules and policies. Some hotels allow smoking in designated areas, while others have strict non-smoking policies. It’s important to respect the hotel’s rules and the comfort of other guests.
Legal Consequences
Smoking weed outside a hotel in Illinois can have legal consequences. Even though Illinois legalized recreational marijuana use, there are still restrictions on where you can smoke. Under the law, smoking in public places, including sidewalks, parks, and streets, is prohibited. If caught smoking in public, you could be fined up to $200. Additionally, hotels can choose to report illegal activity to the police, which could result in further legal consequences.
Risks and Safety Concerns
Smoking weed outside a hotel can also come with risks and safety concerns. For example, smoking in a crowded area could expose others to secondhand smoke. Additionally, smoking in an unfamiliar area could put you at risk for theft or other crimes. It’s important to be aware of your surroundings and take necessary precautions to ensure your safety.
Exceptions to the Rule
Illinois legalized recreational marijuana in 2020, but that does not mean that you can smoke weed anywhere you want. There are certain restrictions on where you can consume cannabis, and hotels are one of those places where you need to be careful.
Designated Smoking Areas
Some hotels have designated smoking areas where you can smoke cigarettes and sometimes even marijuana. However, it is important to check with the hotel staff before lighting up. If the hotel does not allow smoking of any kind, then smoking marijuana is probably prohibited as well.
It is also important to keep in mind that smoking marijuana in public places is illegal in Illinois. So, even if the hotel allows smoking, you should avoid smoking in areas that are accessible to the general public.
Private Residences
If you are staying in a private residence, such as an Airbnb or a friend’s house, then you are free to smoke marijuana as long as the owner allows it. However, it is still important to be mindful of others who may not want to be exposed to secondhand smoke.
Medical Marijuana Users
Medical marijuana users are allowed to smoke in their own homes, but the rules are different when it comes to hotels. While some hotels may allow medical marijuana use, it is best to check with the hotel ahead of time to avoid any potential issues.
If you are a medical marijuana user and need to consume cannabis while traveling, there are other options available, such as edibles or vaping. These methods are discreet and do not produce a strong odor, making them a better option for public use.
It is important to remember that smoking marijuana outside of designated areas or private residences can result in fines or even arrest. So, always check with the hotel or property owner before consuming cannabis, and be respectful of those around you.
Conclusion
In conclusion, if you’re planning to stay in a hotel in Illinois, it’s important to be aware of the state’s marijuana laws and the risks associated with smoking weed outside on hotel property.
While there are some exceptions to the rule, it’s generally not a good idea to smoke weed outside a hotel in Illinois. Not only could you face legal consequences, but you could also put yourself and others in danger.
If you’re a medical marijuana user, it’s important to follow the guidelines set forth by the state and your healthcare provider. And if you’re unsure about the rules for smoking weed in a particular area, it’s always better to err on the side of caution and avoid doing so altogether.
