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Is recreational marijuana legal in Nevada?

By Austin Tannenbaum
YES

In 2016, Nevada voters approved a ballot question to regulate and tax marijuana. It took effect Jan. 1, 2017.

Since then, adults 21 and older have been able to buy, grow, possess and consume marijuana in Nevada, with certain caveats:

  • Marijuana can only be purchased from state-licensed stores.
  • Nevadans may possess no more than 1 ounce of marijuana, or 1/8 ounce of concentrated marijuana.
  • Nevadans may cultivate no more than six plants per person or 12 per household.
  • Marijuana cannot be cultivated within 25 miles of a cannabis store or where it is visible from a public place.
  • Marijuana cannot be consumed in public places, including casinos and hotel rooms.

Private cannabis consumption lounges are permitted, but must, among other provisions, install adequate ventilation. After issuing 40 licenses last year, Nevada’s Cannabis Compliance Board expects lounges to begin opening this summer.

Recreational marijuana has been legalized in 22 states and the District of Columbia. An additional 15 states permit medical marijuana.

This fact brief is responsive to conversations such as this one.
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