Explore the shifting landscape of cannabis laws in Nevada, where regulations have transformed from strict prohibition to accommodating medical and recreational marijuana use. Navigating these evolving laws might appear complex, but fear not—we'll delve into Nevada's cannabis laws together.
From possession regulations to cultivation guidelines and the processes involved in acquiring and distributing medical marijuana statewide, join us as we uncover the changing dynamics of cannabis in Nevada.
Cannabis is legal for medical and recreational use in Nevada.
Adults 21 and over can possess up to 1 ounce of cannabis or 2.5 ounces with a medical card.
There are penalties for possessing more than the allowable amount of cannabis, for unlicensed sales, and for consuming in public spaces.
Is Cannabis Legal in Nevada?
Marijuana has been legal for both recreational and medical use in Nevada since January 1, 2017 after Nevada voters voted in favor of the Initiative to Regulate and Tax Marijuana in 2016. The Cannabis Compliance Board (CCB) is responsible for regulating the use of recreational and adult use of marijuana. Medical use is also approved and medical users may be allowed to access higher possession limits and reduced tax rates.
Keep in mind that marijuana remains illegal federally, prohibiting its use, distribution, or sale on federal property in Nevada. Additionally, public use and consumption in vehicles are illegal.
Regulations for Adult Use
In Nevada, adults age 21 and over can:
Possess up to one ounce of cannabis flower or 7 grams of concentrate for personal use.
Consume cannabis at a private residence with permission from the residence owner.
Cultivate up to six cannabis plants in an enclosed space that is locked and closed from public view ONLY IF you live more than 25 miles away from a licensed dispensary.
Transport cannabis in a vehicle. It must remain in its original, unopened packaging and stored outside the car's "passenger area." This means it should be in a locked compartment (like a glove compartment or trunk), or in a closed container in an area not typically occupied by the driver or passengers.
Regulations for Medical Use
A registered Nevada medical marijuana cardholder may:
Medical marijuana cardholders in Nevada are permitted to hold 2.5 ounces of medical cannabis (every 14 days).
Cultivate up to 12 marijuana plants ONLY IF they live more than 25 miles from a licensed dispensary.
Use cannabis in a private residence or approved medical facilities.
Transport cannabis in a vehicle. It must remain in its original, unopened packaging and stored outside the car's "passenger area." This means it should be in a locked compartment (like a glove compartment or trunk), or in a closed container in an area not typically occupied by the driver or passengers.
Establish a caregiver for patients under 21 years old. A licensed medical professional must approve the caregiver, who can then purchase 2.5 ounces of marijuana on behalf of their patient.
Qualifying Conditions for Medical Cannabis in Nevada
Here's a condensed list of qualifying conditions for medical patients in Nevada:
Acquired immune deficiency syndrome
Anxiety disorders
Autism spectrum disorder
An autoimmune disease
Anorexia nervosa
Cancer
Dependence upon or addiction to opioids
Glaucoma
Cachexia
Muscle spasms, including those caused by multiple sclerosis
Seizures, including those caused by epilepsy
Nausea
Severe or chronic pain
A medical condition related to the human immunodeficiency virus
A neuropathic condition
Please note that this list might not cover all qualifying conditions, as the eligibility for medical cannabis in Nevada could encompass additional ailments as determined by a physician.
Restrictions for Cannabis Use in Nevada
In Nevada, cannabis is legal for medical use. However, there are restrictions imposed on medical card holders, including:
Cannabis consumption in public spaces is strictly prohibited, especially on federal property within Nevada.
Public marijuana consumption is allowed only in licensed consumption lounges.
Marijuana users in Nevada are prohibited from possessing firearms.
Consumption prohibited in hotel rooms or casinos.
Recreational marijuana purchase restricted to individuals aged 21 or older.
Sale limited to state-licensed dispensaries.
Medical marijuana patients are allowed to cultivate if residing 25 miles from a licensed dispensary.
Edible cannabis packaging should not appeal to minors.
Interstate transportation of marijuana is illegal.
Qualifying medical patients who are minors need guardian consent for cannabis use.
Under-21 patients need guardians in dispensaries.
Cannabis use prohibits driving or operating machinery.
Landlords may restrict cannabis use at home.
Nevada Cannabis Laws
Medical Marijuana Laws (2000)
Allows patients with specified conditions to possess 2.5 ounces every 14 days.
Permits cultivation of up to 12 plants, except within 25 miles of a licensed dispensary.
Requires registration and a medical marijuana card from DPBH.
Includes approved forms like concentrates, topicals, edibles, and flowers.
Permits licensing and regulation of designated consumption lounges.
Authorized the purchase and public consumption of marijuana at these lounges.
CCB established regulations in 2022, issuing the first license in December 2022.
Operationalized Nevada's first marijuana consumption lounge in 2023.
How Cannabis is Bought and Sold in Nevada
In Nevada, licensed retail stores exclusively sell cannabis to qualified individuals. Those aged 21 or older can buy marijuana for recreation at any licensed dispensary, while those 18 and above with qualifying medical conditions, verified by a medical marijuana card from the DPBH, can purchase medical marijuana.
Various marijuana products like prerolls, CBD, topicals, extracts, and edibles are available for both recreational and medical use. Buyers must show valid government-issued ID before completing a transaction at a dispensary.
Penalties for Marijuana-related Crimes in Nevada
Cannabis is legal within the specified possession limits for recreational consumers and medical card holders. Otherwise, here are the penalties related to marijuana offenses in Nevada:
Possession for Personal Use:
Public use/display: Misdemeanor, maximum fine of $600.
Under 21 possessing one ounce or less:** Misdemeanor, community service, record sealed upon completion of terms.
Sale/Delivery:
Less than 100 pounds: Felony, 1-4 years imprisonment, fine up to $5,000.
100 pounds to less than 10,000 pounds:** Felony, 1-15 years imprisonment, fine up to $200,000.
Sale to a Minor:
Felony: Life imprisonment possibility, fine up to $20,000, responsible for minor's treatment costs.
Cultivation:
12 plants or more: Felony, 1-4 years imprisonment, fine up to $5,000.
100 pounds to more than 10,000 pounds:** Felony, 1 year to life imprisonment, fine up to $200,000.
Hash & Concentrates:
Possession over 3.5 grams: Subject to criminal penalties.
Paraphernalia:
Sale to a minor by an adult: Felony, 1-5 years imprisonment, fine up to $10,000, restitution to minor for treatment costs.
Legal Cannabis and Buy Online Alternatives
Although cannabis is legal in many states, hemp-derived THC products are still rising as a noteworthy alternative thanks to their affordability and accessibility. Hemp-derived THC products are federally legal, unlike traditional marijuana products, meaning they can often be ordered online and shipped right to your door.
