Staying Compliant: Cannabis Delivery Laws in Atlantic City Explained

Atlantic City has embraced New Jersey’s legalization of adult-use cannabis, offering residents and visitors the convenience of cannabis delivery services. However, understanding the legal framework is essential to ensure compliance and responsible consumption.

Who Can Order Cannabis for Delivery?

In New Jersey, adults aged 21 and over are legally permitted to purchase and possess cannabis. This includes ordering cannabis products for delivery from licensed dispensaries. Upon delivery, consumers must present valid, government-issued photo identification to verify their age. Acceptable forms of ID include a U.S. passport, driver’s license, or state-issued identification card.

How Much Can You Order?

State regulations limit the amount of cannabis that can be purchased in a single transaction:

  • Up to 28.35 grams (1 ounce) of usable cannabis
  • Up to 4 grams of solid or liquid cannabis concentrates
  • Up to 1,000 mg of ingestible cannabis-infused products

Delivery services are required to ensure that these limits are not exceeded in a single transaction and must make a good faith effort to prevent consumers from surpassing these limits through multiple transactions.

Delivery Protocols and Privacy

Cannabis delivery personnel must adhere to strict protocols:

  • Verify the consumer’s age and identity upon delivery
  • Record the verification process without retaining copies of personal identification
  • Provide a receipt detailing the transaction, including the names and license numbers of both the delivery service and the retail dispensary

These measures are designed to protect consumer privacy while ensuring compliance with state regulations.

Where Can You Consume Cannabis?

In Atlantic City, cannabis consumption is restricted to private properties. Public consumption, including on the Boardwalk and in parks, is prohibited. Landlords and property owners have the authority to ban cannabis use on their premises, so it’s advisable to check any lease agreements or property rules.

Currently, there are no licensed cannabis consumption lounges operating in Atlantic City. Any future establishment of such venues would require approval from both the State of New Jersey and the City of Atlantic City.

Transportation and Gifting

When transporting cannabis, it should be kept in a sealed container and stored in the trunk of the vehicle. Driving under the influence of cannabis remains illegal and is subject to the same penalties as alcohol-related offenses.

Gifting cannabis is permitted under New Jersey law, provided that no compensation is exchanged. Adults may gift up to 28.35 grams (1 ounce) of cannabis to another adult aged 21 or over.

Local Taxes and Regulations

Atlantic City imposes a 2% municipal tax on cannabis sales, including deliveries. This is in addition to the state sales tax of 6.625% and any applicable social equity excise fees.

The city has established a local cannabis review board to oversee applications and provide advisory opinions to the City Council and Planning Board. Businesses operating within the Tourism District are also subject to approval by the Casino Reinvestment Development Authority (CRDA).

Final Thoughts

Cannabis delivery services in Atlantic City offer a convenient option for consumers, but it’s important to stay informed about the laws and regulations governing purchase and consumption. By understanding and adhering to these guidelines, consumers can enjoy cannabis responsibly and legally.