Pittsburgh, PA Public Conduct: Public Marijuana Use (2026)
Key Facts
- Public smoking fine
- $100 per violation
- Possession-only fine
- $25 per violation
- Small-amount threshold
- 30g marijuana / 8g hashish
- Enforcement
- Notice of Violation by police
- Minors
- Parent/guardian also cited
Summary
Smoking marijuana in any public space in Pittsburgh is a summary violation carrying a $100 fine per offense, issued by police under Chapter 627 of the city code.
The following shall be a summary violation of this Section: ... ii. Smoking a small amount of marijuana in any public space. ... The penalty for a violation of subsection b.ii. by an adult or minor under the age of eighteen (18) shall be a fine of one hundred dollars ($100.00) for each violation.
Full Breakdown
Pittsburgh Code § 627.02 makes it a summary violation to smoke a small amount of marijuana (30 grams or less, or 8 grams or less of hashish) in any public space: defined as a street, park, sidewalk, or vehicle on a public way. Police issue a Notice of Violation on the spot or by mail; the fine is $100 per offense, though a court may suspend it for up to nine hours of community service. Simple possession alone draws a separate $25 fine. The ordinance expressly does not supersede state or federal law, and officers keep full authority to make custodial arrests for other offenses.
Violations & Fines
$100 fine for smoking marijuana in a public space; $25 fine for simple possession of a small amount; court may suspend the smoking fine for up to 9 hours of community service.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is smoking marijuana in public illegal in Pittsburgh?
What counts as a "small amount" under this ordinance?
Does the city ordinance override Pennsylvania drug law?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Pittsburgh
Compare Pittsburgh to another location·View the Pennsylvania public conduct overview
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