Palm Bay, FL Public Conduct: Public Marijuana Use (2026)
Key Facts
- Threshold
- 20 grams or less
- 1st offense
- $150 or 15 hrs service
- 2nd offense
- $300 or 30 hrs service
- 3rd offense
- $500 + STEPS treatment
- Citation cap
- max 3 civil citations
Summary
Palm Bay police may issue a civil citation instead of a criminal charge for possessing 20 grams or less of cannabis or drug paraphernalia, with escalating fines and mandatory treatment for repeat violations.
(B) The following misdemeanors under state law are eligible to receive a civil violation notice, at the discretion of a law enforcement officer: (1) Possession of twenty (20) grams or less of cannabis, as set forth in Fla. Stat. § 893.13(6)(b)... (D) Penalties. (1) For the first violation, the violator shall pay one hundred fifty dollars ($150) OR elect to perform fifteen (15) hours of community service to be performed at the Habitat for Humanity of Brevard County.
Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: 2026 S-41: Supplement contains: Local legislation current through Ord. 2026-13, passed 5-21-26).
Full Breakdown
Under § 130.02, a Palm Bay police officer may issue a civil notice of violation, instead of a state misdemeanor charge, to anyone 18 or older caught with 20 grams or less of cannabis (Fla. Stat. § 893.13(6)(b)) or drug paraphernalia, unless a felony, DUI, domestic violence, or violent crime is also involved. A first offense costs $150 or 15 hours of community service; a second is $300 or 30 hours; a third is $500 plus mandatory outpatient treatment through STEPS of Brevard County. No one may receive more than three civil citations under this section.
Violations & Fines
Failing to pay the fine, complete community service, or request a hearing within ten business days can trigger collections, a recorded judgment, or referral to the State Attorney for criminal prosecution.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can Palm Bay police still charge marijuana possession as a crime?
What happens after three civil citations?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Palm Bay
Florida rules heatmap·Compare Palm Bay to another location·View the Florida public conduct overview
See something wrong?
Help us keep this page accurate. If you notice an error or outdated information, let us know.
Public Marijuana Use in Nearby Cities
How other cities in Brevard County handle public marijuana use.