Minneapolis seeks to ban cannabis use in parks, but won't issue fines

OG Article

Kirsten Mitchell

04-17-2025

The Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board discussed a policy on Wednesday night that aims to ban the use of cannabis and THC in city parks, but stopped short of making it a criminal offense.

Smoking and vaping is already banned on parkland, with the exception of traditional tobacco use as part of spiritual or cultural ceremonies, so commissioners agreed to clarify that the policy now extends to cannabis. 

However, the board approved new rules that let licensed vendors, restaurants and event organizers sell low-dose THC products — 5 milligrams or less — in city parks.

Board members couldn't agree on what should happen if an individual is caught breaking the rules. Part of the debate was whether to make the policy an ordinance tied to a petty misdemeanor in which any individual violating it could be punished with a ticket and a fine. 

Supporters say the consequences would help keep kids safe and make sure more people complied with the policy.  

"Somebody could drop one of them. A kid picks it up. Next thing you know we're at the park for a drug overdose on a kid," said Commissioner Charles Rucker, who is also a Minneapolis firefighter.  

Others were concerned for people of color and immigrants given the current crackdown on illegal immigration.

"This could be contributing to your point system that gets you deported to a prison camp in El Salvador. This is not inconsequential stuff," said Commissioner Tom Olsen. 

Residents WCCO spoke with on Thursday were in support of the ban.

"I mean, it seems like cigarette smoke to me. If people want to do it that's fine, but don't bother other people with the smell," said resident Leita Walker.

"I think smoking in parks is not pristine, and our parks are pristine," said resident Francis Wise. "So I'd like to see the ban including marijuana, and I have nothing against marijuana."

Enforcement of the new policy relies on park staff, including police, to tell parkgoers and warn violators to leave the park.

The park board will vote on the ban in two weeks to make it official. After the vote, it would be effective immediately.