“Where can I smoke weed?” is a common question for consumers in states where cannabis was recently legalized. Unlike many states, New Jersey didn’t put a blanket ban on smoking in public, so there are plenty of places you can consume openly — but it’s not a free-for-all either. Here’s what you need to know before lighting up out in the open.
Legal Smoking Zones in New Jersey
New Jersey is a relatively smoke-free state, thanks to the Smoke-Free Air Act (SFAA) that bans smoking in most public places. However, there are still a few places where you’re legally allowed to light up your joints, blunts, and bowls.
In NJ, it is legal to smoke or otherwise consume cannabis:
- On private property (landlords are allowed to restrict smoking in rentals)
- In licensed consumption lounges attached to dispensaries in NJ
- Designated smoking areas in public spaces where signs are posted
The SFAA specifically includes “electronic smoking devices”, so these smoking rules apply to vapes as well.
Are the rules different for medical cannabis patients?
No, the rules for cannabis consumption are not different for medical and recreational patients. Medical cannabis patients can consume their medicine anywhere that smoking tobacco and cigarettes are allowed in public, even though the New Jersey Smoke-Free Air Act bans smoking in most public spaces.
Rules and regulations to keep in mind
There are some common courtesies to keep in mind when lighting up in the Garden State.
- Don’t light up next to a school, hospital, nursing home, or public park. It’s not only rude, it’s illegal.
- Dispose of your leftovers properly. Throw away any roaches or remains of blunts in a garbage can after you put it out. Don’t litter!
- Go for a walk. If you need a safe place to light up, head out to the sidewalk and take a walk while you smoke.
The Garden-Friendly State
While you don’t have carte blanche to light up in New Jersey, the law was structured in a way to allow for some licensing when enjoying your favorite greens. Keep your seshes to a friend’s house, a consumption lounge, or other private property and you’ll have a high-flying time. When you need to stock up, visit your friends at Queen City.
FAQ: Common Questions about NJ Cannabis Laws
Still have questions? We have answers.
Can you smoke weed in your car?
No, you cannot smoke weed in your car in New Jersey. While the SFAA allows smoking cigarettes in private vehicles, the law specifically prohibits smoking cannabis in cars.
You can possess cannabis in your car, and the scent of cannabis is not probable cause for police to search your vehicle. It is illegal for a driver or passenger to smoke cannabis in a vehicle, though.
Are there any restrictions on growing cannabis at home?
Yes, there are restrictions on growing cannabis at home. Unfortunately, New Jersey residents are not allowed to grow weed within private residences. Only licensed cultivation facilities are allowed to grow weed.
What are the laws regarding cannabis possession in public?
People over the age of 21 in the state of New Jersey are allowed to possess up to six ounces of cannabis or up to 17 grams of hashish. There is no distinction between what you are allowed to possess at your residence or in public.
Can you use cannabis in hotels or rental properties?
Probably not, but check where you’re staying. New Jersey law states that up to 20 percent of rooms at a hotel or motel can be permitted smoking rooms if allowed by the owner, so it never hurts to ask. Many hotels also have a designated smoking area that you may be able to use.
Some rental houses allow smoking weed as well. Always check the rules and regulations to ensure you don’t face a hefty cleaning fine, but search for “420-friendly” rentals to have a better chance of staying where you can smoke.
What happens if you get caught with weed in NJ?
Not much. You’re allowed to possess up to six ounces of cannabis or 17 grams of hashish at one time, which is a large amount of weed. If you’re caught smoking cannabis where it’s illegal to do so, you may face a fine between $250 and $1,000.
Can you travel with weed in NJ?
Yes, you can travel within New Jersey with cannabis via car, train, or subway. Under federal laws, you cannot cross state lines or fly with cannabis (even within the state.)
Can you smoke on NJ beaches?
No, you cannot smoke on New Jersey beaches. You can’t smoke weed anywhere that smoking tobacco is prohibited, and smoking is not allowed at any state, county, or municipal park or beach within New Jersey.
Where is weed legal in New Jersey?
Weed is legal everywhere in New Jersey except federally-owned lands, and has been since November 2020. Where you can smoke it is limited, but possession is legal across the state.
