Ohio Issue 2 (2023) legalized recreational cannabis for adults 21+, but ORC §3796.30 and Cleveland Chapter 678 still ban public consumption, including sidewalks, parks, RTA, and Lake Erie beaches. Use is restricted to private residences with owner consent.
Ohio voters approved Issue 2 in November 2023, legalizing adult-use marijuana possession of up to 2.5 ounces and home cultivation of six plants. However, Ohio Revised Code §3796.30 prohibits public consumption, and Cleveland Codified Ordinances Chapter 678 mirrors and enforces this ban citywide. Smoking or vaping cannabis is banned on sidewalks, in parks managed by Cleveland Metroparks, on RTA buses and trains, on Lake Erie beaches, and at Cavs, Browns, and Guardians venues. Landlords may also forbid use indoors. Adult-use retail launched in 2024-2025 across Ohio.
Public consumption is a minor misdemeanor under ORC §3796.30 with up to a $150 fine. Smoking near schools or parks may stack with juvenile-protection enhancements and Metroparks ranger citations.
See how Cleveland's public marijuana use rules stack up against other locations.
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