Florida permits medical cannabis only. Recreational possession, purchase, or use remains illegal statewide. Medical use is governed by state statute, which caps dispensing to registered patients and limits smokable cannabis to 2.5 ounces per 35-day period, with broader 70-day limits for non-smokable forms. These allowances are patient-specific and tracked in the state registry. Tourists should not assume “small amounts” are tolerated.

Out-of-state medical cards are not accepted. Florida requires either permanent or “seasonal” residency—such as snowbirds who meet documentation requirements—before a patient can be added to the registry and issued a Florida medical card. Visitors cannot shop at Florida dispensaries with another state’s card.

Public use is largely prohibited. The Florida Clean Indoor Air Act bans smoking and vaping in enclosed indoor workplaces, and the Department of Health advises that medical cannabis should be used privately, not in public spaces. Local rules can be stricter. Miami Beach, for example, has moved to re-criminalize public smoking and possession during peak tourist periods and already bans smoking on beaches and in parks.

Driving under the influence is illegal regardless of medical status. Florida’s DUI laws apply to cannabis impairment just as they do to alcohol, with potential for arrest, license suspension, and fines. Tourists should plan transportation in advance if consuming.

Federal property is off-limits. Cannabis remains illegal under federal law, meaning possession or use is prohibited on federal lands such as national parks, seashores, and wildlife refuges, including Everglades National Park and Big Cypress National Preserve.

Air travel requires extra caution. While TSA does not actively search for cannabis, any discovered products must be reported to law enforcement. Federal jurisdiction applies in airports and during flights, making travel with cannabis risky—even for medical patients.

Hemp and “Delta-8” products are not a guaranteed workaround. Florida continues to update rules for hemp extracts, retail sales, and child-appealing products. Labels, potency limits, and age restrictions matter, and local enforcement varies. Only purchase from compliant retailers after reviewing current state regulations.

Practical Tips for Tourists

• Assume private use only. Consume on private property with explicit permission. Hotel balconies may still be off-limits under property rules.
• Don’t drive impaired. Use rideshare services or wait until fully unimpaired; cannabis DUI laws are strictly enforced.
• Avoid beaches, parks, and public promenades. Many areas prohibit smoking and vaping, with active enforcement in tourist hubs.
• Stay off federal land. Keep cannabis away from national parks and do not bring it into airports.
• Skip the reciprocity assumption. Other states’ medical cards are not valid in Florida.
• Check seasonal residency eligibility. Long-term visitors may qualify for a Florida card, but documentation is strict.

By following these guidelines, tourists can avoid legal trouble and enjoy a stress-free Florida vacation.