Washington DC marijuana is said to be one of the best in the country. And for very obvious reasons! With various laws and policies overseeing the quality of weed being distributed to DC residents & tourists, it's not a surprise to see visitors from across the country troop into our shop in search of premium quality marijuana.
However, there's a catch. These laws are kind of like a double-edged sword. They help keep the quality of weed being distributed, but they also make it hard or confusing to access weed in the capital- that is, for someone who isn't up to date with current facts on DC weed laws.
This article will update you on various facts about DC's weed laws. We will also reveal where to purchase the best quality weed and cannabis products in DC.
Yes, Marijuana is Legal in DC
Weed has been legal in DC for quite some time now, but not in the way you think. Cannabis laws are a bit weird in DC, and the sooner you understand how they work, the better.
DC citizens have fought for the legalization of weed for more than two decades. This persistence brought about the Medical Use Of Marijuana Act (I-692) back in 1998. Making DC the second American state to legalize medical marijuana.
Sixteen years later, in 2014, the DC Council voted to decriminalize cannabis possession for recreational purposes through Initiative 71. Although this relentless push for legalization was met with stiff opposition, it decisively legalized the use of cannabis in Washington, DC.
The primary legislation regulating cannabis is Initiative 71. This weed law is an off-shoot of several legislative policies that control cannabis consumption and use in the state.
Other weed laws, policies, and regulations for recreational use of marijuana in Washington include, Washington Administrative Code (WAC) Title 314- Liquor & Cannabis Board Chapter 314-55: Marijuana Licenses, the Application process, Requirements & Reporting, the Revised Code of Washington (RCW) Chapter 69.50 (Uniform Controlled Substances Act)- Marijuana Provisions in Article 3, the 2013 State Session Laws (2013 c 3 Marijuana).
How Initiative 71 Works
As stated earlier, Initiative 71 is the primary law on the use of recreational marijuana in DC. It exists to prevent cannabis from being abused in the state upon legalization. Abuse and misuse of marijuana were significant concerns causing setbacks for approving any weed law in Washington.
Congress faced a dilemma back in 2014, reject the legalization of recreational weed and keep the streets free from illegal drug sales or approve the use of recreational weed and bring unprecedented joy to DC residents. This was where Initiative 71 came in handy. Initiative 71 was a Washington, DC voter-approved ballot initiative that legalized the recreational use of cannabis.
Initiative 71 and its laws birthed a way for the government to monitor weed distribution across the district. However, there's a downside to these laws; they are very strict. For example, recreational weed cannot be sold in DC; it can only be gifted. Unlike medical weed, which can be sold in the district.
One thing to note is that the process of getting I71 compliant recreational weed is much easier than medical weed. To get recreational weed in DC, all you have to do is visit an I71 compliant smoke shop and acquire your free weed gifts. In comparison, medical cannabis requires you to possess a medical marijuana card, which often takes a while to obtain.
If you're going to follow the easy route and get recreational weed, here are some rules you must follow:
In Washington DC, you must be 21 years and over to possess weed.
Smoking pot on government property is prohibited. The federal government owns about 29% of DC land. These areas include parks and military zones. Avoid smoking or vaping in these places.
You can only receive and gift weed but not sell or buy.
Individuals of age can possess up to two ounces of marijuana and grow up to three mature marijuana plants in their homes.
Individuals are allowed to transfer up to one ounce of marijuana plants to another person.
The law charges a fine for consuming marijuana in public.
Operating a vehicle while high will get you arrested. It's also classified as a DUI charge.
How to Get Free Weed Initiative 71 Gifts at Hidden Gym
Hidden Gym is Washington DC's best source of cannabis goodies. We comply with Initiative 71 provisions and only gift-free premium weed products. We also have a five-star rating on Google Reviews with over 80+ reviews.
To get free weed gifts via Hidden Gym, you can simply purchase one of our exclusive Hidden Gym Fitness Plans and get a free weed gift with your purchase.
Frequently Asked Questions on Getting Marijuana in DC
Here are some frequently asked questions we get from weed lovers across the DMV area;
How Do I Get a Medical Marijuana Card?
Below, you will find the steps needed to get a medical marijuana card in DC;
The first step of the process requires you to meet a physician for evaluation. This physician will examine you and determine whether you have a condition that can be treated with medical cannabis.
Once the physician has finished your evaluation and identified your condition, they will give you a recommendation.
After this, you will have to apply and pay for your medical marijuana card. This usually costs $100 or $200.
Once you have submitted your application, you will receive your medical marijuana card in the mail within 3-4 weeks!
Are there Recreational Dispensaries in Washington DC?
No, there are no recreational dispensaries in DC, just medical dispensaries. Unlike Vegas and California, Washington DC has smoke shops or Initiative 71 Gift Shops instead of recreational dispensaries. These smoke shops must comply with the I-71 laws, and you have to comply with them. The beauty of these shops is that you don’t need a medical card to shop, all you need is a state-issued license that shows you’re over 21 years old.
Can I Get in Trouble for Smoking in Public?
Yes, you can! In DC, you can only smoke on private property - which means it is illegal to smoke in public places like parks, streets, alleys, parking areas, or sidewalks.
This restriction also applies to smoking in privately accessible public places like bars, restaurants, and clubs. Smoking in your car is also a no-no.
However, there are certain areas with lenient laws. These places include Georgetown, Eighteenth Street Lounge, The Alley Ways of U Street, Northwest DC, Congressional Cemetery in Southeast DC. (But you didn’t hear it from us).
Do I Need to Be a DC Resident?
No, you don't need to be a DC resident to get weed. As a tourist, you are also free to acquire and consume weed in DC, so far as you comply with the DC weed laws.
If you're looking for how to get weed in DC, check out Washington DC's Top Rated i71 Shop – Hidden Gym. From California to local DC brands, we offer only premium weed gifts like flower, edibles, and concentrates. Call (202) 568-0094 for more information on how to place an order. Or visit our online menu to pre-order online and skip the line!