Understanding local cannabis laws in tournament host cities has become just as important for many fans as knowing who’s on the injury report. With more states legalizing cannabis in different ways, sports travelers can’t assume what’s allowed at home will be allowed where the game is played. A basic legal game plan goes a long way toward staying safe and compliant.

First, it helps to understand the broad categories of state law. Some host states, such as Nevada, have legalized adult-use cannabis for anyone 21 and older, with limits on possession and where it can be used. Others are medical-only, requiring a state-issued patient card, while a handful still prohibit cannabis entirely, including possession of small amounts. Regardless of category, cannabis remains illegal under federal law, which matters for air travel, postal shipments, and any federal property such as courthouses or many government buildings.

Local rules often tighten things further. Even in adult-use states, cities and counties can restrict or ban retail stores, public consumption, or cannabis lounges. For example, some tourism-heavy cities allow dispensaries but strictly prohibit smoking on sidewalks, near stadiums, in parks, or in hotel common areas. Many municipalities also enforce “no odor” or nuisance rules in multifamily buildings and vacation rentals, leaving consumption limited to specifically permitted private spaces.

Venue and campus policies are their own layer. NCAA championship events are often held in or near college arenas where campus regulations typically forbid cannabis possession and use entirely, even for adults or medical cardholders. Schools and arenas may treat violations as grounds for removal or trespass, independent of local criminal laws. That means a fan who is technically under the legal possession limit could still be ejected or banned from future events for breaking venue policy.

Driving is another critical issue. Every state prohibits driving under the influence of cannabis, and many use a mix of blood-THC limits, observable impairment, and field sobriety tests. Law enforcement near major events often runs enhanced patrols around game days. Open-container style rules may also apply to cannabis, especially for products in use or unsealed packages within reach of the driver. Fans relying on rideshare, public transit, or walking between hotel, dispensary, and arena reduce both legal risk and safety concerns.

Out-of-state visitors must pay attention to crossing borders. Even if two neighboring host states both permit adult-use sales, transporting cannabis between them can violate both state and federal law. Mailing products home is also illegal. Travelers should plan to consume — and finish — any products legally at their destination rather than try to bring them back on a return flight or road trip.

Practical preparation helps. Before traveling, fans can review official state cannabis program websites, city ordinances, and stadium or campus “guest conduct” pages for explicit rules on possession, product types, and consumption areas. Checking whether on-site consumption lounges exist, what their hours are, and whether reservations are required can prevent last-minute scrambling. Finally, consumers should remember that potency, onset time (especially for edibles), and local serving sizes may differ from what they’re used to at home, and adjust accordingly.

With a little homework on local law, venue policy, and safe transport, sports fans can enjoy both the tournament and their cannabis experience without unexpected penalties.

Read More: How Cannabis Policies Impact NCAA March Madness Players