Weed In Belize: Paradise Lost?

Belize is a small Central American country with a population of approximately 400,000 people. While marijuana is illegal in Belize, it is widely consumed and largely tolerated. In 2017, the country amended its Misuse of Drugs Act to decriminalize the possession and use of small amounts of cannabis (up to 10 grams) on private premises. However, it remains illegal to grow, buy, or transport marijuana. As a result, tourists who want to smoke marijuana in Belize must purchase it illegally, and it is recommended to be cautious and avoid smoking in public areas.

Marijuana is decriminalised in Belize, but not legalised

Marijuana is decriminalised but not legalised in Belize. While residents are allowed to smoke marijuana on private premises, including hotels where smoking is permitted by the owner, it is still illegal to grow, buy, transport, or sell cannabis. This means that while you can possess and smoke marijuana in certain places, it is difficult to obtain it in the first place.

In 2017, Belize amended its Misuse of Drugs Act to allow legal marijuana use on private property. This amendment was significant as it effectively decriminalised marijuana possession and use, placing Belize at the forefront of Central American countries moving towards legalised cannabis consumption. However, the amendment included several caveats that make accessing marijuana challenging. For example, individuals are only permitted to possess up to ten grams of marijuana, and all other activities related to marijuana, such as cultivation, purchase, and transportation, remain illegal.

The ambiguity of the 2017 amendment has led to confusion and debate over the legal status of marijuana in Belize. While it is technically decriminalised, the lack of clarity around the law means that full legalisation is yet to be achieved. The government has made efforts towards legalisation, such as the introduction of the Cannabis and Industrial Hemp Control and Licensing Bill in 2022, which outlined a framework for the legal cultivation and sale of marijuana. However, opposition from groups like the church and the banking sector has stalled progress, and the bill is currently back with the legislature.

It is important to note that marijuana use and possession can still result in fines or imprisonment in Belize, and the laws are enforced to varying degrees. While the police may be semi-tolerant of marijuana use among locals, tourists are advised to be cautious and avoid smoking in public areas to prevent legal repercussions.

It is illegal to buy, sell, grow or transport weed in Belize

In 2017, Belize amended its Misuse of Drugs Act to decriminalize the possession and use of marijuana on private property. This amendment was a landmark decision, as it placed Belize at the forefront of Central American countries advocating for the legalization of cannabis consumption.

However, it's important to understand that marijuana is not legal in Belize, and buying, selling, growing, or transporting it can lead to severe consequences. The 2017 amendment only permits individuals to possess up to ten grams of marijuana on their person or private property. Anything beyond this amount remains illegal and can result in fines or imprisonment.

Despite the decriminalization of small amounts for personal use, the sale and distribution of marijuana are still prohibited. This means that even if you are allowed to possess a small amount for personal use, acquiring it through purchase or transportation is illegal. The amendment has created a situation where individuals can possess and consume marijuana but have limited means to obtain it legally.

Additionally, it is important to note that the laws and their enforcement may vary depending on your status as a tourist or a local. While the police may be semi-tolerant towards locals caught with small amounts of marijuana, tourists are advised to be cautious and avoid smoking in public areas. Tourists who are caught possessing or consuming marijuana may face stricter penalties and are advised to consult local laws and guidelines to ensure they don't inadvertently break any rules.

Tourists are advised to avoid buying weed in Belize

While the use of cannabis in Belize is common and largely tolerated, tourists are advised to avoid buying weed in Belize. This is because, despite the decriminalisation of marijuana in 2017, it is still illegal to buy, sell, or transport it. Tourists who are caught with weed in Belize may face fines or imprisonment.

In 2017, Belize amended its Misuse of Drugs Act to allow legal marijuana use on private property. This means that residents can possess or use up to 10 grams of marijuana on private premises, including hotels where smoking is permitted by the owner. However, this does not apply to tourists, for whom marijuana remains illegal.

If you are a tourist in Belize, it is important to remember that you are a guest in the country and should respect their laws. While the people of Belize are generally laid-back and friendly, and the police are semi-tolerant of marijuana use, it is best to avoid getting caught with weed. This can be as simple as not smoking in the streets where the police are.

If you are looking to buy weed in Belize, it is important to be cautious. Some sources suggest asking a taxi driver or tour guide for help, but it is important to remember that you may be breaking the law and there can be consequences if you are caught. It is also important to note that tourists are often charged more for weed than locals.

In summary, while marijuana use may be common and tolerated in Belize, it is important for tourists to be aware of the legal risks associated with buying weed. It is advisable to avoid purchasing or possessing weed as a tourist in Belize to avoid any potential legal consequences.

You can smoke weed in private residences in Belize

In 2017, Belize amended its Misuse of Drugs Act to decriminalize the possession and use of cannabis in amounts of 10 grams or less on private property. This means that you can smoke weed in a private residence in Belize, such as someone's house, without facing criminal charges. However, it is important to note that this amendment does not apply to businesses, such as bars or restaurants.

While the decriminalization of cannabis in Belize allows for legal recreational use within the specified limits, it is important to understand that buying, selling, and growing cannabis are still illegal. This means that you cannot legally purchase weed from a dispensary or grow your own. Additionally, smoking in public or possessing large amounts of weed can result in fines or imprisonment.

The legalization of cannabis in Belize has been a complex issue. In 2022, the Cannabis and Industrial Hemp Control and Licensing Bill, which outlined a framework for full legalization, was passed by both houses of the National Assembly. However, due to opposition from religious groups and other sectors, the bill was halted before it could be signed into law, and a referendum on the issue was cancelled. As of 2024, there has been no further progress towards full legalization.

It is worth noting that the enforcement of cannabis laws in Belize may vary. While the use of cannabis is common and largely tolerated, there have been reports of tourists being arrested for possessing small amounts. Therefore, it is crucial to be discreet and respectful when consuming weed in Belize, especially as a visitor.

In summary, while you can smoke weed in private residences in Belize without facing criminal charges, it is important to stay within the legal limits and be mindful of the local laws and cultural sensitivities surrounding cannabis use.

Taxi drivers are a good source of weed in Belize

In 2017, Belize amended its Misuse of Drugs Act to decriminalize the use of marijuana on private property. However, the amendment was criticized for its lack of clarity. While individuals can possess up to 10 grams of marijuana without facing criminal charges, buying, growing, or transporting marijuana is still illegal.

Despite the ambiguous nature of the law, the use of cannabis in Belize is common and largely tolerated. Taxi drivers are a good source of weed in Belize. They are usually willing to take you to get some, but it is important to tip them for their help. Tour guides can also be a good source of information on where to buy marijuana. Asking locals for help is generally a good idea, as they get better prices than tourists and are often happy to help or point you in the right direction.

When purchasing marijuana in Belize, it is important to remember that it is still illegal to possess more than 10 grams and to smoke in public places, including the beach. It is also illegal to sell or distribute marijuana. While the police are semi-tolerant and may not take action against locals caught with small amounts, tourists should be more cautious to avoid getting caught.

The price of weed in Belize varies, but it is generally inexpensive. For example, one person reported purchasing 3 grams of mid-grade weed for $5 Belize dollars (about $2.50 USD). Another person reported getting a "copious amount" of "El Original" for $40 BZD (about $20 USD). It is recommended to bargain, as prices can vary and it is a poorer country.

Overall, while the laws around marijuana in Belize are somewhat confusing, it is relatively easy to find and purchase weed in the country, especially with the help of locals such as taxi drivers and tour guides.

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