Chicago Public Conduct: Public Marijuana Use Rules (2026)

While recreational cannabis is legal in Illinois for adults twenty-one and older under the Cannabis Regulation and Tax Act, 410 ILCS 705, public consumption is prohibited by section 10-35. Smoking, vaping, or eating cannabis in any place accessible to the public, including streets, sidewalks, parks, restaurants, bars, apartment common areas, and inside motor vehicles, is barred. Chicago aligns enforcement with its smoke-free framework in MCC chapter 7-32. Use within one thousand feet of a school, daycare, or correctional facility is enhanced. Hospitality consumption lounges require state licensing and city zoning approval; few currently operate. Renters can be banned by lease even where smoking tobacco is allowed.