Marijuana is not legal in Nashville, but small-scale possession is partially decriminalized. Under Tennessee state law, cannabis remains illegal for both recreational and most medical use. Possession of any amount is technically a misdemeanor offense.
That said, Nashville has taken a more lenient stance in recent years. After an initial attempt to decriminalize cannabis in 2016 was overturned at the state level, the city made progress in July 2020, when the District Attorney announced that charges for possession of under half an ounce (14 grams) would no longer be prosecuted. This effectively reduced the legal consequences for small amounts, although the law itself has not changed.
In short, cannabis remains illegal, but if you’re caught with a small personal amount in Nashville, you’re unlikely to face criminal charges, though it’s still not risk-free.
Top things to remember
- Cannabis is illegal in Tennessee, including in Nashville, for both recreational and most medical use.
- Nashville does not prosecute minor possession under 14 grams, but state law still classifies it as a misdemeanor.
- There are no legal dispensaries or access for tourists, and public use or transport can still lead to fines or arrest.
Understanding Cannabis Laws in Nashville and Tennessee
Cannabis is illegal in Tennessee, including in Nashville, but local enforcement varies. While state law still treats marijuana possession as a criminal misdemeanor, Nashville’s District Attorney has chosen since July 2020 not to prosecute cases involving less than 14 grams (½ ounce) of cannabis. This decision doesn’t change the law itself; it simply means minor possession charges are no longer actively pursued within the city.
Penalties under state law for possession include up to one year in jail and a $250 fine for a first offense, with harsher consequences for repeat offenses or larger amounts.
There’s a clear distinction between THC and CBD products. Only CBD oil with less than 0.9% THC is permitted for specific medical conditions and must be obtained lawfully. Hemp-derived products with under 0.3% THC are federally legal and widely available, but must comply with Tennessee’s labeling and sourcing regulations.
These laws apply equally to residents and tourists, so visitors should not assume leniency due to local policy. While Nashville may not prosecute small possession cases, cannabis use and possession remain legally risky throughout the state.
Where Does Tennessee Stand on Medical Marijuana?
Tennessee has no functional medical cannabis program in place. While the state technically allows CBD oil with less than 0.9% THC for a narrow list of severe conditions like epilepsy, this law comes with major limitations.
Patients are expected to obtain the oil legally outside of Tennessee, and must provide proof of purchase if found in possession. There are no legal dispensaries, no patient registry, and no framework for in-state access, making it nearly impossible for residents or visitors to benefit from the law.
Despite repeated attempts to expand access, every medical cannabis bill introduced in 2025 has stalled, with no meaningful progress made in the legislature. Tennessee remains one of only a handful of U.S. states without a viable medical marijuana law, even as all of its neighboring states (except for one) have already enacted more progressive policies.
Tourists are not eligible for any medical cannabis access in Tennessee, and even qualifying residents face serious legal risks due to the state’s lack of infrastructure and continued criminalization of possession.
Can You Buy Cannabis in Nashville? Here’s the Reality
Cannabis is not legally sold anywhere in Nashville or anywhere in Tennessee. There are no licensed dispensaries or pharmacies permitted to sell marijuana, either for recreational or medical use. The only legally accessible cannabis-related products are hemp-derived items (like CBD with <0.3% THC), which are available in wellness shops, smoke stores, and online retailers.
Due to the strict legal landscape, anyone seeking THC products must turn to the black market, which carries obvious legal and safety risks. This applies to both residents and tourists, as no one can legally purchase marijuana in the state, regardless of purpose.
According to 2024 data from Clever Real Estate, Nashville ranks among the worst U.S. cities for cannabis access, placing 6th overall in the negative rankings. The average cost for an ounce of high-quality weed is around $363.55 in Nashville, 14% higher than the national average, reflecting the lack of legal supply and inflated prices on the illicit market.
Rules on Where You Can (and Can’t) Use Marijuana in Nashville
Since cannabis is illegal in Tennessee, public consumption is strictly prohibited across Nashville. Smoking, vaping, or using cannabis products in parks, streets, music venues, or any other public setting can result in legal consequences, even for small amounts.
Private use is also risky. While enforcement may be lighter in some areas, using marijuana in a hotel, Airbnb, or rented property is not legally protected. Most hotels and landlords have strict no-drug policies, and violating them could lead to eviction or fines, regardless of local enforcement practices.
When it comes to transporting cannabis in Nashville, the rules remain strict: possession is illegal under state law, but carrying up to 14 grams (½ ounce) is effectively decriminalized within city limits. While you won’t face prosecution in Nashville for small amounts, there’s still no legal protection, and possession can technically lead to misdemeanor charges, especially outside the city.
In short, whether you’re a tourist or a resident, there are no officially legal safe spaces for cannabis use or transport; discretion is essential.
Can You Travel to Nashville with Weed? What You Need to Know
Bringing cannabis into Nashville, or anywhere in Tennessee, is illegal, even if you’re coming from a U.S. state where marijuana is fully legal. Federal law applies at airports and borders, and TSA agents are required to report any findings of illegal substances, including cannabis, to local law enforcement.
If you’re caught with weed at Nashville International Airport (BNA), you could face misdemeanor charges, fines, or even arrest, depending on the amount and the officer’s discretion. While TSA’s focus is on security threats, not drug enforcement, they will not ignore cannabis possession in a state like Tennessee, where it remains criminalized.
The same rules apply when leaving Nashville: carrying marijuana, whether in checked bags, carry-ons, or on your person, can land you in legal trouble. This includes medical marijuana, even if you have a prescription from another state.
To avoid legal issues, it’s safest to travel without cannabis, even small amounts. Tennessee laws are not forgiving, and airport security teams are generally strict and thorough, especially when screening travelers in and out of non-legal states.
How Strict Is Law Enforcement in Nashville When It Comes to Weed?
While Tennessee law treats cannabis possession as a misdemeanor, enforcement in Nashville is relatively lenient, but that doesn’t mean you’re safe. Since 2020, the city’s District Attorney has chosen not to prosecute minor possession cases under 14 grams (½ ounce). This policy shift has reduced arrests, but possession is still technically a crime, and police can still stop, search, and cite you.
In practical terms, if you’re caught with a small amount in Nashville, you’re unlikely to be jailed, but you could still face a citation, fines, and even temporary detainment. Outside of Nashville, especially in more rural parts of Tennessee, enforcement is much stricter, and the same amount could easily lead to an arrest or criminal record.
There are no widespread reports of corruption or cannabis-related scams involving law enforcement in Nashville, but it’s smart to avoid street dealers or anyone offering weed publicly, as these encounters can be setups or lead to theft, fake products, or worse.
Bottom line: Nashville police may be more tolerant than state law requires, but the risk of legal trouble still exists, especially for tourists unfamiliar with local boundaries.
What Do People in Nashville Really Think About Cannabis?
Nashville may be progressive in some areas, but when it comes to cannabis, social attitudes remain mixed. While younger locals and certain creative communities tend to be more accepting, open cannabis use is still generally frowned upon, especially in public or family-oriented spaces.
You likely won’t face open hostility if someone smells or suspects you’re using weed, but don’t expect widespread acceptance, either. Tennessee is a conservative state overall, and marijuana use is still associated with stigma, especially among older residents and law enforcement.
There is a small but active cannabis-friendly community in Nashville, including advocates, artists, and wellness circles that support reform and legalization. However, it’s not a visible or public scene like in states with legal access. Events are limited, and gatherings tend to stay underground or private to avoid legal issues.
If you’re visiting, it’s best to keep any cannabis-related activity discreet and low-key, even in places that might seem relaxed.
Local Tips for Cannabis Users Visiting Nashville
If you’re hoping to connect with the local cannabis scene in Nashville, keep in mind that everything happens under the radar. Because marijuana is still illegal, most people avoid open conversations about it. That said, common slang terms like “green,” “bud,” “tree,” or “smoke” are used casually, especially among younger crowds. However, asking strangers or service workers about weed is risky and not recommended.
There are no official weed-friendly festivals or 420 events due to the state’s legal restrictions. Some local music and arts events may attract a cannabis-friendly crowd, but use and possession are still illegal, even in more relaxed social circles.
As for 420-friendly accommodation, you won’t find any listed publicly. Most hotels and Airbnb hosts in Nashville have strict no-smoking policies, and marijuana use, whether indoors or outdoors, can lead to fines or removal from the property. If you’re booking a private rental, it’s best to ask directly about smoking policies before arrival, but don’t expect explicit approval for cannabis use. When in doubt, stay discreet and respectful of local laws and customs.
Final Advice Before You Travel
Laws can change quickly; always check the latest local rules before bringing or using any cannabis products in Nashville. While enforcement in the city may be more relaxed than in the rest of Tennessee, marijuana remains illegal, and even minor possession carries legal risks under state law.
If you choose to travel with cannabis-related items, do so at your own risk. There’s no legal protection for possession or use, and being unaware of the laws won’t prevent consequences. Avoid public use, don’t ask strangers for weed, and stay away from street deals or unfamiliar sources.
Travel smart, stay discreet, and be respectful of the city’s culture and legal boundaries. If you’re unsure about what’s allowed, it’s always safer to go without.