California Health and Safety Code Section 11362.3 makes it illegal to smoke, vape, or consume cannabis in any public place, including LA sidewalks, parks, and beaches. Smoking inside a moving vehicle, by driver or passenger, is a misdemeanor.
Although adult cannabis use is legal in California, Health and Safety Code Section 11362.3 prohibits consumption in any public place, on school grounds, in any location where tobacco smoking is banned, and within 1,000 feet of a school, daycare, or youth center while children are present. Smoking or vaping inside a motor vehicle, whether moving or parked on a public roadway, is a separate misdemeanor for both driver and passenger. Los Angeles is implementing state consumption-lounge licensing for indoor on-site use, but no permitted lounges are open citywide as of 2026. Edibles consumed discreetly in public still violate the public-use ban.
Public consumption is a $100 infraction. Consumption near schools is up to $250. Smoking inside a vehicle is a misdemeanor with fines up to $250 for passengers and additional charges for drivers.
Los Angeles, CA
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Los Angeles, CA
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See how Los Angeles's public marijuana use rules stack up against other locations.
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