Cook County, IL Public Conduct: Public Marijuana Use (2026)
Key Facts
- Smoker fine
- Up to $100 per violation
- Buffer distance
- 15 feet from entrances/exits
- Coverage
- Enclosed public places countywide
- Definition
- Covers lighted weed, not just tobacco
Summary
Cook County's Clean Indoor Air Ordinance defines "smoking" to include lighted weed, not just tobacco, and bars it in enclosed public places and workplaces countywide, plus within 15 feet of their doors.
Smoke or smoking ... means ... The carrying, smoking, burning, inhaling, or exhaling of any kind of lighted pipe, cigar, cigarette, hookah, weed, or other lighted tobacco product in any manner or in any form... Smoking shall be prohibited in all enclosed public places and places of employment within the County of Cook... Smoking is prohibited within 15 feet of any entrance, exit, windows that open or ventilation intakes to an enclosed area in which smoking is prohibited.
Full Breakdown
Cook County's Clean Indoor Air Ordinance (Code of Ordinances Ch. 38, Art. IX) defines "smoking" as carrying, burning, or inhaling any lighted pipe, cigar, cigarette, hookah, or weed: language that folds cannabis into the same ban as tobacco. The ordinance bars smoking in enclosed public places and workplaces across the County of Cook, covering restaurants, transit, shopping malls, sports arenas, and public meeting rooms, plus within 15 feet of their entrances, exits, and operable windows. The Cook County Department of Public Health and local law enforcement field complaints and conduct inspections for compliance.
Violations & Fines
Smoking marijuana where prohibited is an infraction with a fine up to $100 per person, per day; an operator who lets violations continue faces fines from $250 up to $2,500 and possible license suspension.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Cook County's smoking ban cover marijuana?
Where can't I smoke marijuana in Cook County?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Cook County
Compare Cook County to another location·View the Illinois public conduct overview
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