New Jersey now has cannabis lounges Pt2.
New Jersey’s Smoke-Free Air Act makes it clear where you shouldn’t light up and risk being a nuisance or health hazard for others. No smoking in indoor public spaces like restaurants, bars, or offices. No smoking in public parks, or on beaches. With all the spaces where you cannot smoke, cannabis users now have legal spaces to smoke cannabis socially outside their homes—cannabis consumption areas. Imagine meeting friends for happy hour, but at a dispensary’s cannabis lounge instead of your local bar, and without alcohol.
On July 2025, the NJ-CRC approved the first four consumption area endorsement applications, and two have already opened.
What is a cannabis consumption area?
A cannabis consumption area is a designated space connected to a licensed retail dispensary where adults 21 and older can use cannabis products – including joints. These spaces can be either indoors or outdoors, but in either case, they must comply with strict safety and ventilation standards under both municipal and state laws.
Consumption areas will likely not all look the same. Some may take the form of sleek lounges with a curated vibe. Others might be simple and outdoorsy, evoking a backyard feel. Regardless of the decor or ambiance, each space must prioritize consumer safety, accessibility, and compliance with NJ-CRC rules.
Why are cannabis consumption areas important?
Not everyone can, or wants to, smoke or consume cannabis at home. Renters face restrictions, tourists lack access, and people living in multi-family units may be subject to building policies that ban smoking altogether.
Consumption areas also help remove some of the stigma and stereotyping associated with cannabis use. They provide spaces for adults to use cannabis communally, safely, and legally while providing opportunities for education. Consumers can ask questions and learn about safe use in real time.
Who can operate a cannabis consumption area?
Only licensed Class 5 cannabis retailers can apply for a consumption area endorsement - with municipal approval specific for the space.
Find application fees and other application information for operators.
LEARN THE LATEST ABOUT CONSUMPTION AREAS HERE
