Sunny Isles Beach, located in Miami-Dade County, adheres to Florida’s state cannabis laws. While medical marijuana is permitted under specific conditions, recreational use remains illegal. Visitors should be aware of the following regulations to ensure compliance during their stay.
Medical Marijuana
Florida legalized medical marijuana in 2016 through Amendment 2. Qualified patients with a Medical Marijuana Use Registry (MMUR) ID card can purchase cannabis from licensed dispensaries. As of 2025, patients may obtain up to 2.5 ounces of smokable flower every 35 days and possess no more than 4 ounces at any time. For non-smokable forms, such as edibles and tinctures, the limit is a 70-day supply, equating to approximately 24,500 mg of THC .
Consumption of medical marijuana is restricted to private residences. Smoking or vaping in public spaces, including beaches and parks, is prohibited.
Recreational Marijuana
Recreational cannabis use is illegal in Florida. Possession of 20 grams or less is a first-degree misdemeanor, punishable by up to one year in jail and a $1,000 fine . Possessing more than 20 grams is a felony offense. Additionally, possession within 1,000 feet of schools, parks, or similar areas can result in enhanced penalties, including mandatory minimum sentences .
Local Enforcement in Sunny Isles Beach
Sunny Isles Beach is located in Miami-Dade County, which has adopted a policy of issuing civil citations for possession of small amounts of marijuana. However, enforcement can vary by municipality. While some areas may opt for citations, others may pursue criminal charges. It’s crucial to be aware of local ordinances and enforcement practices.
Public Consumption
Public consumption of cannabis is illegal throughout Florida. Municipalities like Miami Beach have enacted ordinances prohibiting smoking marijuana, hemp, or cannabis in public spaces, including beaches and parks, with penalties of up to $500 and 60 days in jail . While Sunny Isles Beach may not have a specific ordinance, state laws against public consumption still apply.
Delta-8 and Hemp-Derived Products
Products like delta-8 THC, derived from hemp, occupy a legal gray area. While the 2018 Farm Bill federally legalized hemp products containing less than 0.3% delta-9 THC, Florida has attempted to regulate these substances. In 2024, legislation aimed at banning delta-8 products was vetoed by the governor, leaving them legal but unregulated . Consumers should exercise caution, as these products are not subject to the same safety standards as regulated cannabis.
Driving Under the Influence
Operating a vehicle under the influence of cannabis is illegal in Florida. Law enforcement officers may arrest individuals suspected of impaired driving, regardless of medical marijuana status. Penalties can include fines, license suspension, and jail time.
Key Takeaways
- Medical Use: Legal for qualified patients with an MMUR ID card; consumption must occur in private.
- Recreational Use: Illegal statewide; possession penalties vary based on amount and location.
- Public Consumption: Prohibited; violators may face fines and jail time.
- Delta-8 Products: Legal but unregulated; consumer discretion advised.
- Driving: Impaired driving laws apply to cannabis use; violations carry serious consequences.
Residents and visitors in Sunny Isles Beach should remain informed about both state and local cannabis laws to ensure compliance and avoid legal issues.