Atlantic City has embraced New Jersey’s legalization of adult-use cannabis, providing new opportunities for both residents and tourists. However, to enjoy the benefits of legal cannabis, it’s essential to understand the city’s laws and regulations regarding consumption, possession, and compliance.
Legal Possession and Purchasing
Adults aged 21 and over in New Jersey can legally possess up to six ounces of cannabis or cannabis products. Purchases must be made from state-licensed dispensaries regulated by the New Jersey Cannabis Regulatory Commission (CRC). Atlantic City has opted into the adult-use market, permitting all cannabis license types to operate locally, including retail and consumption lounges.
Consumption Restrictions
Possession and purchase may be legal, but consumption has its limitations:
- Public Spaces: Cannabis cannot be smoked, vaped, or aerosolized in public areas such as the boardwalk, beaches, parks, or sidewalks. Local ordinances reinforce these restrictions, similar to tobacco smoking bans.
- Private Property: Consumption is allowed on private property only if the property owner permits it. Landlords can legally prohibit cannabis use on their premises, and tenants must comply with lease agreements or face penalties.
- Cannabis Lounges: Atlantic City is at the forefront of cannabis hospitality, with venues like High Rollers Lounge at the Claridge Hotel offering on-site consumption. These lounges operate under strict state and local regulations to ensure safety and compliance.
Driving and Transportation
Driving under the influence of cannabis remains illegal. Law enforcement officials use sobriety tests and other assessments to evaluate impairment. Penalties for driving while impaired include fines, license suspension, and potential jail time. Additionally, transporting cannabis across state lines—even to other legal states—is prohibited under federal law.
Home Cultivation
Currently, New Jersey does not allow home cultivation of cannabis for personal or medical use. All cannabis must be purchased through licensed dispensaries. Violating this restriction can lead to criminal charges.
Medical Cannabis
Registered patients in New Jersey’s Medicinal Cannabis Program are permitted to purchase and use medical cannabis. However, they must still follow local consumption laws. This includes no public consumption and no impairment while operating vehicles. Medical patients must carry their registry identification card and valid ID when possessing or transporting cannabis.
Compliance and Penalties
Cannabis consumption in unauthorized areas, such as public spaces or motor vehicles, can result in fines. First-time offenses may lead to citations, while repeated violations could result in steeper fines or misdemeanor charges. Business owners and landlords also have the right to establish “no cannabis” policies on their premises.
Final Thoughts
Atlantic City is steadily becoming a cannabis-friendly destination, but responsible use is key. Understanding where you can legally consume, what you can carry, and how to stay compliant helps customers and patients enjoy their cannabis safely. As regulations evolve, staying informed is essential for navigating this new era of legal cannabis in Atlantic City.