Summer is the best time to get out and do stuff in Reno! July in particular is one of Reno’s most eventful months. Whether you’re planning on watching Fourth of July fireworks at Greater Nevada Field, or hitting up Food Truck Friday at Idlewild Park (seriously, bring your appetite), public events are best enjoyed safely and responsibly. Having awareness of Reno law when it comes to things like drug use, drinking, and open carry in public spaces, is important especially during this time of the year. Joey Gilbert Law is here to help you understand your rights and the various legal restrictions you face while you make the best of Reno’s events. Understanding the law helps you, and others, stay safe.
Marijuana Use in Public
If you’re downtown for the Biggest Little City Wing Fest on the 5th & 6th or the Chalk Art Festival at the Atlantis on the 12th – 14th, you may be tempted to consume marijuana while you enjoy the festivities. First, you need to know the drug laws in Reno regarding public use.
In the state of Nevada, although recreational cannabis is legal, cannabis consumption is meant to be used in private only. It is illegal to consume cannabis in public spaces, on federal land, or in your vehicle. Doing so may result in a fine. Consuming in casinos or hotels is also illegal.
Driving while under the influence of marijuana is against the law and incurs similar penalties to driving under the influence of alcohol.
If you’d like to consume at home before attending a public event, make sure you have a designated driver to give you a ride to and from the event.
Public Drinking
July’s biggest events are, of course, the Fourth of July parades and fireworks. The Reno Aces are playing a night game against the Sacramento River Cats on July 4th and will be having a fireworks spectacular afterwards. Beer and hot dogs are staple foods of both ballparks and Independence Day, but if you’re planning on going out after the game, you should be aware of the restrictions on public intoxication.
In Reno, while it is legal to be publicly intoxicated, there are restrictions against having an open container in public. In most areas it is illegal to be carrying an open container of any kind of alcohol, however, it’s legal when in enclosed special events. Don’t plan on taking your container outside of that event’s boundaries.
In Nevada, it is always illegal to drive while under the influence of alcohol, so make sure to have a designated driver or some other way to get home – or you run the risk of being charged with a DUI.
Open Carry
Open carry laws in Reno apply regardless of a public event. You may open carry in public spaces, but not in federal areas or buildings, school campuses, and you may be asked not to in casinos. You’ll also want to stay away from open carrying combined with either drugs or alcohol. Carrying a firearm is your right, but it’s also an awesome responsibility that should be treated as such.
Now that you have an understanding of the public use restrictions in Reno regarding drug laws, drinking, and open carry law, you will be able to enjoy yourself responsibly without fear of fines or DUIs.
Don’t forget to contact Joey Gilbert Law if you find yourself in some hot water this summer. Our team of attorneys are here to fight for you!
