With 4/20 around the corner, the City’s Office of Cannabis Management is issuing a friendly reminder to residents 21 and older to keep celebrations safe, responsible and lawful.
Cannabis is legal in California for adults 21 and older, but there are still important rules to follow. Not following them can lead to citations or other consequences.
Public use is still prohibited
While the City recently adopted an ordinance to create a pilot program for cannabis social consumption lounges, those businesses are not yet open. Cannabis use remains prohibited in public spaces, including parks, sidewalks, parking lots and vehicles.
“Even with social consumption lounges on the horizon, it’s important for people to know the current laws haven’t changed,” said Al Romero-Gibu, who leads the City’s Office of Cannabis Management. “Cannabis must still be consumed in private settings in a lawful and thoughtful manner.”
Here’s what to know before 4/20:
1. You must be 21 or older to purchase cannabis.
Adults 21 and older may legally buy, possess or use adult-use cannabis. The legal limit is 28.5 grams of dried cannabis flower and 8 grams of concentrated cannabis per day. It is illegal to give or sell cannabis to anyone under 21 years old.
2. Purchase only from permitted dispensaries and delivery services.
Cannabis must be purchased from properly licensed businesses. A searchable map of permitted businesses is available on the California Department of Cannabis Control website. Residents can help support local cannabis entrepreneurs participating in the City’s Cannabis Opportunity Reinvestment and Equity (CORE) program by choosing to shop local.
3. Consumption is allowed only in private spaces.
Cannabis may be used in private residences unless prohibited by property owners or landlords. It is not allowed in public spaces, areas where tobacco smoking is banned, or within 1,000 feet of schools, daycares, or youth centers when children are present.
4. Driving under the influence is illegal.
Cannabis impairment while driving, boating, or operating any vehicle can result in a DUI, similar to alcohol. Law enforcement may conduct sobriety tests if impairment is suspected.
5. Cannabis in vehicles must be sealed and stored properly.
Open containers are not allowed in vehicles. Cannabis must be in a sealed package or stored in the trunk. It is illegal to consume cannabis while driving or riding in a vehicle.
6. Cannabis consumption events must be permitted by the City of Sacramento and the Department of Cannabis Control and can only take place at Cal Expo.
Events held elsewhere in the city are not allowed.
7. Report illegal cannabis activity.
Use these resources provided by the City of Sacramento to report illegal cannabis activity.
Zoning amendments are still underway
The City is currently working to update cannabis land-use and zoning regulations through its Title 17 Cannabis Amendments. These changes aim to modernize local cannabis rules and better align with policy goals around equity, access, and neighborhood compatibility.
“While the policy work continues, residents should plan for a safe and responsible 4/20 based on current laws,” Romero-Gibu said.
To learn more about local cannabis laws and regulations, visit the City’s cannabis webpage, contact the City’s Office of Cannabis Management at cannabis@cityofsacramento.org, or call (916) 808-8955.
