Visiting a marijuana dispensary can be a photo-worthy experience, especially if it’s your first time or you’re coming from a state that has not yet legalized recreational marijuana use. Not to mention there’s something about the vibe of many dispensaries that makes you want to capture it. But before taking a trip to the dispensary (no pun intended), you should be aware of some of the rules and etiquette when it comes to phone use and photos.
The Rules on Picture Taking
Most often, you will notice that you are not allowed to take photos in a dispensary. Some dispensaries will go as far as restricting phone use altogether in their shop. This is typically due to privacy and discretion. This rule was initially put in place to protect the privacy of patients purchasing medicinal marijuana. However, since marijuana use is not fully decriminalized, it is oftentimes used to protect the privacy of those shopping recreationally as well. Shops may also enforce this rule as a means of security for the shop, or to follow their local laws or specific license types.
Although this is usually the rule in dispensaries, it is not a law. You will notice that some dispensaries not only allow picture-taking, but even encourage it. The marijuana industry is rapidly growing as legalization spreads. New shops are popping up, and allowing photos to be taken and shared can be a means to free promotion for these new dispensaries.
Tips Before Taking Out Your Phone in a Dispensary
If you’re visiting a new dispensary and you’re curious about the phone policy, the best thing to do is speak directly to employees before taking it out. Although dispensaries may have a policy against photo-taking, it’s also important to consider their policy on general phone use. You may want to use your phone to help you research different strains or decide on a purchase while you browse the shop. In this case, communicate with your budtenders to find out if this is allowed. If this is not an option in the shop you’re visiting, don’t worry! Dispensary employees are informed and ready to give you all the insight you need on their products. On the other hand, if you want to take a photo of a cool new product and recommend it to your friends, feel free to ask if the shop allows it.
Plan Your Next Dispensary Visit
Visiting a dispensary is a fun, new experience that many people are doing for the first time following legalization. If you’re tempted to snap a few photos while browsing, be sure to check in with your budtenders beforehand so that you can ensure you are respecting the shop rules. At Campfire Cannabis, we want to make sure that you have the best in-shop and online experience while shopping for high-quality bud. Visit one of our two locations or browse our online cannabis shop today!
