URGENT UPDATE: Residents in Washington State are grappling with a pressing issue: Can you legally call the police on a neighbor for cannabis smoke? With recreational cannabis legalized for over a decade, recent discussions have intensified about the rights of individuals impacted by secondhand smoke.
As of now, Washington law permits adults aged 21 and over to consume cannabis on private property. However, public consumption remains strictly prohibited. This means you cannot smoke cannabis in public places such as sidewalks, parks, or while hiking.
If cannabis smoke wafts onto your property from a neighbor, the situation can become complex. The legality of reporting your neighbor depends significantly on the type of property involved. If you reside in a rental, you may involve the landlord. However, if both parties own their homes, enforcing restrictions on cannabis use can be challenging.
What can you do? First, consider reaching out to your neighbor directly. Explain your concerns about the smoke affecting your home. Clark County Public Health suggests open communication as a first step before escalating the issue. If a resolution cannot be reached, residents can seek mediation through local dispute resolution centers or request assistance from landlords in shared communities.
For those living in designated non-smoking areas, the situation can be further complicated. If your landlord fails to enforce a no-smoking policy, resources are available through the Tenants Union of Washington State. You can discuss the impacts of secondhand smoke with your landlord and request a transfer to a smoke-free area.
If the conflict persists and you feel that the smoke affects your health or quality of life, legal action may be a last resort. To pursue this, you would need to prove that the smoke constitutes a “private nuisance” and is damaging your property or endangering your health.
Residents are urged to be mindful of others when consuming cannabis, even in private spaces. While you may have legal rights, maintaining good neighborly relations can help prevent potential disputes.
As this situation develops, residents are encouraged to stay informed about their rights and local regulations regarding cannabis use. For further assistance, consult official resources provided by local health departments and tenant unions.
This article includes updated information reflecting the current legal landscape as of September 2023. Share your thoughts and experiences with cannabis smoke in the comments below.
