Louisiana Cannabis Laws: What You Need To Know This Festival Season

(KMDL-FM) The use of cannabis and products with THC is allowed in Louisiana. It is allowed by prescription only. And to purchase and consume cannabis legally in Louisiana, you not only need a doctor's recommendation, but you must purchase from a state-authorized dispensary.

READ MORE: Know Before You Go - Festival International 2026

Since cannabis sales and use are overseen by the Louisiana Department of Health, many people assume that because the medication is legal, it can be consumed in public just like you might take a prescription allergy medication or something your doctor has prescribed for indigestion.

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Can Medical Cannabis Be Used in Public at Louisiana Festivals?

This weekend, there are two major outdoor festivals in Louisiana. One is the New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Festival in New Orleans. The other is Festival International in downtown Lafayette. I have attended both festivals, and during each visit, I have encountered individuals using cannabis in public. Were they breaking the law?

Here is what the Louisiana Statutes say about cannabis consumption.

1- You may not smoke or vape cannabis products in motor vehicles

2-Your passengers may not smoke or vape cannabis in your vehicle

3- You may not consume a cannabis product on sidewalks or in public parks.

4- You may not consume cannabis products in restaurants, bars, outdoor patios, workplaces, offices, public transportation, bus stops, schools, or government buildings.

Where Can Medical Cannabis Be Used Legally in Louisiana?

Okay, we've given you the "where you can't" take your medicine. Now, let's take a look at where the use of cannabis is acceptable according to Louisiana law. The answer, as you might expect, is "personal".

1-You may use cannabis in your home or the home of someone who has permitted you to use the medication in their home.

2- You may use cannabis on private land that is not open to the public.

READ MORE: Is Cannabis Purchased in Other States Legal in Louisiana? 

As it stands now, cannabis use in Louisiana is restricted to medical use only, so if you think of it as any other medication your doctor prescribes you, you probably wouldn't see the need to medicate in a public space.

And you should also make a note that Louisiana does have anti-smoking statutes on the books, as do many communities. So, there is that aspect of cannabis use that you should consider as well.

If you do have questions about medical marijuana, how to obtain a prescription, or where it's allowed and not allowed, you may contact an authorized dispensary in the state. They are very helpful in making sure that you understand the ramifications of using the medicine as well as the responsibility that comes with the prescription.

They can even assist in getting you qualified to obtain a medical marijuana recommendation, usually at no charge, which you will need to obtain to purchase medical cannabis in Louisiana legally. 

And just in case you run into some folks at a fair or festival this weekend and you have questions about whether they may or may not be under the influence, there are some telltale signs to look for.