(KGTV) - California’s new recreational marijuana laws took effect Jan. 1, 2018. Here are some answers to the frequently asked questions about pot consumption under the state's Medicinal and Adult-Use Cannabis Regulation and Safety Act.
Cannabis remains classified as a Schedule I drug under the federal Controlled Substances Act, and its purchase, possession, distribution, or use within California may be unlawful under federal law.
NOTE: All information is provided by the California Dept. of Public Health on Oct. 17, 2017, and may be subject to change.
RELATED: Timeline: How marijuana laws have changed in California
BUYING AND SELLING
- Adults 21 and older can use, carry, purchase, and grow cannabis. That includes up to one ounce (28.5 grams) of cannabis and up to 8 grams of concentrated cannabis.
- You can only buy cannabis at retail outlets licensed by the California Bureau of Cannabis Control.
- Although you can legally possess cannabis, it is illegal for you to sell it without a license.
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GROWING YOUR OWN
- You can plant, cultivate, harvest, dry, and process up to six cannabis plants in your private residence or on the grounds of your residence.
- Plants must be in a locked space that is not visible to the public.
- Cities and counties may prohibit the outdoor cultivation of cannabis.
- Property owners and landlords may ban the use, growth, and possession of cannabis on their properties.
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CONSUMPTION
- You cannot use cannabis within 1,000 feet of a school, day care center, or youth center while children are present.
- Even though it is legal under California law, employers have the right to prohibit the use of cannabis by their employees.
- Cannabis can be consumed on private property but not in public places.
DRIVING
- If you are under the influence of cannabis while operating a car, boat, or other vehicle, a law enforcement officer can pull you over and conduct a sobriety test. Violators are subject to DUI laws.
- Having an open container of cannabis in a vehicle while driving or riding in the passenger seat is against the law.
- If you have cannabis in a vehicle, it must be in an approved sealed package or container. Otherwise, it must be kept in the trunk.
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TRAVEL
- Cannabis may not be consumed or possessed on federal lands like national parks, even if the park is in California.
- It is illegal to take cannabis across state lines, even if you’re traveling to another state where cannabis is legal.
- Cities and counties may have stricter laws about cannabis that are in addition to the state law.
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