Is Weed Legal in Las Vegas?

Las Vegas is famous for its freedom, nightlife, and party scene—but is weed legal in Las Vegas, Nevada? The short answer is yes, for adults 21 and over, but with strict rules on where and how it can be used.

Nevada legalised recreational cannabis in 2017, and Las Vegas has since become a hotspot for cannabis tourism. However, it’s not a free-for-all. Smoking in public is illegal, and violating the rules can result in fines—even if the purchase itself was legal.

Here’s what you need to know before lighting up in Sin City.

Recreational Cannabis: Legal for Adults

In Las Vegas, you can legally:

Purchase cannabis from a licensed dispensary if you’re 21 or older
Possess up to 1 ounce (28 grams) of cannabis flower
Possess up to 1/8 of an ounce (3.5 grams) of cannabis concentrate
Use cannabis in private, such as in a home or a licensed consumption lounge

You cannot:

Use cannabis in public, including hotels, casinos, streets, parks, or vehicles
Buy cannabis from unlicensed sellers
Transport cannabis across state lines, even to neighbouring legal states

Where Can You Buy Weed in Las Vegas?

Las Vegas has dozens of licensed dispensaries, many of which are located just minutes from the Strip. Some even offer delivery services within city limits.

These dispensaries sell:

Dried flower (bud)
Pre-rolled joints
Edibles (gummies, chocolates, beverages)
Vape cartridges
Concentrates and oils

You’ll need to show a government-issued photo ID proving you’re 21 or over. Passports are accepted for international visitors.

Where Can You Use It?

This is where many tourists get caught out.

You can’t legally smoke or consume cannabis:

In hotels or casinos (they’re governed by federal law, which still classifies cannabis as illegal)
On the Las Vegas Strip
In rental cars
At concerts, festivals, or other public events

The only legal places to consume cannabis in Las Vegas are:

Private residences (with the owner's permission)
State-licensed consumption lounges (as of 2023, these are starting to open and expanding in 2025)

Smoking in public can result in a fine of up to $600, and police do issue citations.

Medical Cannabis in Nevada

Nevada legalised medical marijuana in 2000, and the programme still exists alongside the recreational system.

Patients with qualifying conditions (e.g. chronic pain, cancer, PTSD, glaucoma) can get a medical marijuana card
Medical users may possess larger quantities and may also cultivate cannabis under specific conditions if they live far from a dispensary
Visitors with out-of-state medical marijuana cards may also purchase from dispensaries, but it’s advised to check with the store first

Driving and Cannabis

Driving under the influence of cannabis is illegal, and Nevada takes this seriously.

Police can conduct field sobriety tests and blood tests
Conviction can lead to:
- Fines
- Jail time
- Licence suspension

Even having an open container of cannabis in your car—especially if it’s been opened and is accessible—can result in a fine. Always store cannabis in the boot (trunk) when transporting it.

Cannabis and Federal Law

It’s worth noting that cannabis remains illegal under US federal law. While Nevada allows recreational use, you can’t take cannabis into airports, federal buildings, or across state lines—even to another legal state like California.

McCarran International Airport (now officially Harry Reid International Airport) has strict rules. There are “amnesty boxes” near entrances for people to dispose of cannabis before flying.

Can Tourists Buy Weed in Las Vegas?

Yes, absolutely—as long as you’re 21 or over, you can buy cannabis just like a local. But you’ll need to:

Bring valid ID
Buy only from licensed dispensaries
Consume only in private or permitted spaces

Future Outlook

Las Vegas is embracing the cannabis industry. With consumption lounges opening, the city is moving toward a more tourist-friendly cannabis experience—without legal grey areas.

Expect to see: