Chico, CA Public Conduct: Public Marijuana Use (2026)
Key Facts
- Governing section
- § 5.42.300(A)(3)
- Covers
- smoking, vaping, eating, drinking
- Where banned
- public property, public view
- Penalty class
- misdemeanor, § 5.42.420
Summary
Chico bans consuming or using cannabis on public property or anywhere accessible to or visible from the public, including smoking, vaping, eating, or drinking it.
It is unlawful for any person: ... 3. To consume or use cannabis or cannabis products, whether by smoking, vaping, inhaling, eating, drinking or any other means: ... ii. In, on or about any publicly owned or operated property; any place open to, or accessible by the public; any place smoking is prohibited; or any place visible from any public place with normal unaided vision;
Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: Supplement contains local legislation current through: Codified Resolution No. 53-26, adopted 7-14-26 and Ordinance No. 2622, adopted 6-2-26).
Full Breakdown
Chico Municipal Code § 5.42.300(A)(3) makes it unlawful to consume or use cannabis or cannabis products, by smoking, vaping, inhaling, eating, drinking, or any other means, on or about any publicly owned or operated property, any place open to or accessible by the public, any place where smoking is prohibited, or any place visible from a public place with normal unaided vision. The ban applies citywide, not just near cannabis businesses, and covers private clubs, cooperatives, and ticketed events too.
Violations & Fines
A violation is a misdemeanor under § 5.42.420(A), punishable under the Code's general penalty provisions; each day a violation continues counts as a separate offense.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I smoke cannabis on a Chico sidewalk?
Does this only apply to licensed cannabis businesses?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Chico
California rules heatmap·Compare Chico to another location·View the California public conduct overview
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