Weed In Belize: Where To Find It

Belize is a small country in Central America with a diverse ecosystem and many natural attractions. Marijuana is illegal in Belize, but it is fairly easy to find if you know the right people to ask. While it is not legal to buy, sell or grow cannabis, possession of small amounts (up to 10 grams) and consumption on private property have been decriminalised since 2017. This means that tourists can carry a small amount of weed and smoke it in their hotel room, for example, without facing criminal charges. However, it is important to note that smoking in public can result in a fine, and it is illegal to transport marijuana into the country.

Ask locals or a taxi driver

While marijuana is illegal in Belize, it is fairly easy to find if you ask the right people. In fact, cannabis consumption is very common in Belize, and the country is one of the top in Central America when it comes to cannabis use.

If you're looking to purchase weed in Belize, asking a taxi driver is a good place to start. Taxi drivers are often well-connected and can help you find what you're looking for. Most will be able to point you in the right direction or even take you to a dispensary or seller. It's important to approach this interaction with the right attitude and be respectful and discreet. Don't be afraid to strike up a conversation with your driver and ask if they know where you can purchase weed. Remember to tip them for their help, especially if they go out of their way to assist you.

Keep in mind that, as a tourist, you might be charged a higher price than locals for the same amount of weed. To avoid this, it's recommended to ask for the amount you want in dollars rather than weight. A local or taxi driver can also help you navigate this and ensure you get a fair price.

While cannabis consumption in small quantities on private property has been decriminalized, it's important to remember that buying, selling, and growing cannabis are still illegal in Belize. Additionally, smoking in public can result in fines or even imprisonment. Therefore, it's crucial to exercise caution and discretion when purchasing and consuming weed in Belize.

Be discreet and avoid smoking in public

While cannabis consumption is common in Belize and can be easy to find even as a visitor, it's important to remember that it is still not legal to smoke in public places. Here are some tips to be discreet and avoid smoking in public:

• Understand the Law: Know that while possession and consumption of small amounts of cannabis (up to 10 grams) on private property have been decriminalized since 2017, it is still illegal to smoke in public. The law specifically states that smoking is only allowed in private residences, and this includes hotels that allow smoking on their premises.
• Ask the Right People: If you are looking to acquire cannabis, it's important to be discreet and only ask trusted locals or connect with people who share the same interests as you. Avoid approaching strangers or dealing with unknown sources, as this could put you at risk.
• Respect Local Culture: Remember that while cannabis use is common and largely tolerated, not everyone in Belize supports its legalization. Respect the local culture and avoid smoking in public places, especially near schools, religious institutions, or areas frequented by families and children.
• Be Mindful of Your Surroundings: When consuming cannabis, be aware of your surroundings and avoid attracting attention. Choose a private and secure location where you can enjoy your cannabis without disturbing others or breaking the law.
• Know the Consequences: Keep in mind that if you are caught with more than 10 grams, or if you are found to be growing, selling, or transporting cannabis, you could face legal consequences, including fines or even imprisonment. Respect the local laws and consume cannabis responsibly.

By following these guidelines, you can help ensure that you remain discreet and avoid smoking in public places while in Belize. Remember to stay informed about the latest laws and regulations regarding cannabis use in the country, as they may continue to evolve.

Understand the risks: it's illegal to buy, sell and grow

While the possession and use of marijuana in small amounts (up to 10 grams) on private property have been decriminalized in Belize since the 2017 amendment to the Misuse of Drugs Act, it is important to understand that buying, selling, and growing marijuana are still illegal. This means that even though you can possess and consume small amounts of marijuana in the privacy of your home, you cannot legally purchase it from someone or grow it yourself. Transporting marijuana is also illegal, so you cannot carry it with you outside your home.

The laws surrounding marijuana in Belize are vague and complex. While the 2017 amendment decriminalized possession and use on private property, it did not specify whether cannabis use was for medical or recreational purposes. This has created a grey area where marijuana is not exactly legal, but its possession and use in small amounts are tolerated. However, it is important to remember that the sale, cultivation, and transportation of marijuana remain illegal.

The penalties for drug offences in Belize can be severe, including long prison sentences in local jails. Therefore, it is crucial to understand the risks associated with any involvement in the marijuana market in Belize. While the country is making strides towards full legalization, with the Cannabis and Industrial Hemp Control and Licensing Bill passing through both houses of the National Assembly in 2022, strong opposition, particularly from religious groups, has stalled progress. A referendum on the legalization of marijuana was set to take place in September 2022 but was cancelled due to the high cost and growing opposition.

As a visitor to Belize, it is essential to be aware of the local laws and respect the culture and regulations of the country. While cannabis consumption might be common and relatively tolerated, possessing large amounts, smoking in public, and selling or distributing marijuana are illegal and can result in fines or imprisonment. Always exercise caution and discretion when it comes to marijuana in Belize, and remember that the legal landscape is constantly evolving.

It's easier for residents than tourists to access

Belize is a small country in Central America, with a diverse ecosystem and many beautiful beaches. Marijuana is illegal in Belize, but it is fairly easy to get if you know the right people and places to ask.

In 2017, a new law was passed that decriminalised weed consumption in small quantities (up to 10 grams) in private residences. This means that residents can smoke and carry small amounts of weed without facing criminal charges. However, it is important to note that buying, selling, and growing cannabis are still illegal. While the police may turn a blind eye to tourists smoking on the beach, it is best not to be too blatant, as smoking in public can result in a fine.

For residents, the decriminalisation of marijuana means they can consume and possess small amounts without fear of legal repercussions. They can also take advantage of the availability of CBD oil, which is legal if extracted from industrial hemp. However, tourists may find it more challenging to access weed due to the illegal nature of the trade. They may have to rely on locals or taxi drivers to help them find and purchase weed, and they are likely to pay a higher price than locals.

The laws around marijuana in Belize are complex and constantly evolving. While there is a push for full legalisation, particularly from young people and marijuana enthusiasts, strong opposition from religious groups has stalled progress. The government is also facing challenges in regulating the quality and supply of marijuana. Despite these hurdles, Belize is still considered one of the more progressive countries in Central America when it comes to cannabis legislation.

Marijuana has a long history in Belize

In 2012, the Government of Belize announced that it was considering decriminalising the possession of small amounts of cannabis. Two years later, in 2014, the US State Department claimed that the Belizean authorities had eradicated over 100,000 cannabis plants in the first ten months of the year.

In October 2017, the House of Representatives passed an amendment to the Misuse of Drugs Act, decriminalising the possession or use of 10 grams or less of cannabis on private premises. The bill was signed into law in early November by the Governor-General, Sir Colville Young, despite objections from religious groups. This amendment placed Belize at the forefront of Central American countries allowing legalised cannabis consumption.

While the 2017 amendment decriminalised small amounts of marijuana, everything else surrounding it remained illegal. This includes growing, buying, or transporting marijuana. As a result, although individuals can possess and consume small amounts of cannabis on private property, the question of how they can legally obtain it remains unclear.

In 2022, the Belizean government made further progress towards full legalisation by passing the Cannabis and Industrial Hemp Control and Licensing Bill through both houses of the National Assembly. This bill outlined a framework for the legal cultivation and sale of marijuana, with industry guidelines in place. However, due to opposition from various groups, including the church, the banking sector, and segments of the tourism industry, the bill was forced to go through a referendum. The referendum was initially set for September 2022 but was cancelled due to the supposed $5 million cost of holding it. As of July 2022, there has been no progress on rescheduling the referendum, and the bill is back with the legislature.

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