PRESS RELEASE
Business License officials are reminding Reno-area residents and visitors that public consumption of marijuana is unlawful. Official reminder letters (see attached) have been issued this week to businesses within the City of Reno.
Nevada Revised Statute 453D.400(2) states: “A person who smokes or otherwise consumes marijuana in a public place, in a retail marijuana store, or in a moving vehicle is guilty of a misdemeanor punished by a fine of not more than $600.” Marijuana consumption includes inhaling or ingesting of any marijuana or marijuana products.
The only place in which it is legal to consume marijuana is at a private residence for private use. It is also unlawful to advertise and invite the public to consume marijuana at parties, dining events, recreational activities, and at other events, even if the event is held in a private residence.
Furthermore, it is unlawful to consume marijuana in tour buses, limousines, and other common carriers. It is not only illegal to consume marijuana in a moving vehicle, it is illegal to consume marijuana in a public right of way. Consuming marijuana at casinos and airports is also illegal.
Businesses should keep their properties clear of any signs, pamphlets, or other materials advertising such activities and please inform their employees that promoting any such activity is unlawful.
On Sept. 10, 2017, the Legislative Counsel Bureau (LCB) issued a legal opinion regarding a local government’s authority to allow on-site consumption of marijuana at certain businesses and special events. City of Reno staff and the City Attorney’s Office are reviewing the opinion. However, the opinion does not change the current prohibition on public consumption.
The Reno Police Department and other law enforcement agencies will continue to issue violations to individuals illegally consuming marijuana and to any individual or entity allowing, advertising, or promoting the illegal consumption of marijuana.
The City of Reno is not encouraging anyone to participate in the use or possession of recreational marijuana. Use and possession are still violations of federal law.
