Recreational cannabis is illegal in Nebraska, and any public use, possession, or display in Lincoln violates state and city law. Medical cannabis Initiatives 437 and 438 passed in 2024 but exclude public consumption.
Nebraska Revised Statute §28-416 criminalizes possession of marijuana, with first-offense possession of one ounce or less an infraction, escalating to misdemeanor and felony tiers. Initiative 437 (medical authorization) and Initiative 438 (regulatory commission) approved by Nebraska voters in November 2024 establish a registry for qualifying patients, but the framework expressly forbids smoking or vaping cannabis in public spaces, vehicles, schools, and workplaces. Lincoln Police enforce both state and LMC §9.20 prohibitions. Even registered patients cannot consume in Lincoln parks, sidewalks, or businesses.
First-offense possession is an infraction with fines up to $300; public consumption upgrades to misdemeanor charges. Second and subsequent offenses bring jail time, mandatory drug education, and license suspension.
Lincoln, NE
Lincoln Municipal Code Chapter 8.20 prohibits smoking in indoor workplaces, restaurants, bars, and certain outdoor areas including patios near entrances, bui...
Lincoln, NE
Cannabis dispensaries are not permitted in Lincoln or anywhere in Nebraska, as the state has not legalized medical or recreational cannabis sales. There are ...
See how Lincoln's public marijuana use rules stack up against other locations.
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