Owais Crawford
Although Colorado legalised the recreational use of marijuana in 2012, the Denver International Airport has banned the possession, consumption, use, display, transfer, transport, distribution, and sale of the drug. This ban includes all airport grounds. Marijuana is also illegal under federal law. However, the Transportation Security Agency (TSA) allows travellers to bring products that contain up to 0.3% of Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) — the main psychoactive compound in marijuana. The legal threshold is far lower than the amount of THC found in recreational marijuana, and such a small amount can be found mostly in hemp products. DIA has no restrictions on hemp. While the TSA states that its officers “do not search for marijuana or other illegal drugs,” if any illegal substance is found during security screening, TSA will refer the passenger to local law enforcement.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Legality of buying gummies at Denver Airport | Illegal |
| Legality of possessing gummies at Denver Airport | Illegal |
| Legality of selling gummies at Denver Airport | Illegal |
| Legality of possessing gummies in Colorado | Legal |
| Legality of possessing gummies on an airplane | Illegal |
| Denver TSA actively looking for gummies | No |
| Denver TSA response to finding gummies | Confiscation |
| Native Roots Tower dispensary distance from Denver Airport | 10-15 minutes by Uber or Lyft |
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What You'll Learn
Denver Airport bans marijuana
Marijuana has been legal for medical use in Colorado since 2000 and for recreational use since 2012 for those aged 21 and over. However, Denver International Airport (DIA) bans marijuana.
DIA's passenger conduct policy prohibits any possession of cannabis at the airport, and cannabis businesses are banned from advertising there. This is because, as a federal entity, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) follows federal transportation laws, and under federal law, cannabis is a Schedule I drug under the Controlled Substances Act and is prohibited for any purpose.
Despite marijuana being legal in Colorado, it is prohibited from the state's airports, and pilots knowingly transporting it face severe penalties. TSA officers will confiscate cannabis if they find it, but the agency is more focused on national security threats. Their marijuana policy states:
> "TSA’s screening procedures are focused on security and are designed to detect potential threats to aviation and passengers. Accordingly, TSA security officers do not search for marijuana or other illegal drugs, but in the event a substance that appears to be marijuana or a cannabis-infused product is observed during security screening, TSA will refer the matter to a law enforcement officer."
Some travellers have reported successfully bringing small amounts of marijuana products, including edibles, through airport security at DIA. However, this is not recommended as doing so is illegal and could result in serious consequences.
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TSA not searching for drugs
While marijuana and cannabis-infused products are illegal under federal law, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) is not actively looking for drugs during searches. TSA officers are, however, required to report any suspected violations of the law to local, state, or federal authorities.
When it comes to searches at airports, there are varying levels of screening and enforcement depending on the location and the authorities involved. For example, when traveling from Colombia to the US, luggage and carry-on bags may be hand-searched, while flights originating from Europe may have less stringent checks.
At Denver International Airport, travelers have reported varying experiences with transporting edibles and other cannabis products. Some individuals have had their bags pulled for additional screening, while others have had their products returned to them without comment after inspection. Overall, the likelihood of being caught with edibles at the Denver airport is considered slim, and TSA agents are not likely to flag bags specifically for edibles.
To reduce the risk of detection, some travelers recommend removing cannabis products from their original packaging and placing them in sealed bags or containers that resemble regular snacks or vitamins. It is also recommended to pack these items in carry-on luggage rather than checked bags, as carry-on luggage is less likely to be thoroughly searched. However, it is important to note that the potential consequences of being caught with cannabis products can vary depending on the destination, with international travel carrying stricter penalties.
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Hiding gummies in regular candy
Hiding cannabis-infused gummies in regular candy is a common practice, especially when travelling through airports. While it is not recommended, many people have reported successfully taking edibles through airport security by hiding them in regular candy. Here are some tips on how to do it:
Firstly, it is important to remove the edibles from their original packaging. The original packaging often has labels that indicate the presence of cannabis. Instead, transfer the edibles to a sealed bag or container that is inconspicuous and similar to regular candy packaging. For example, if you are bringing gummy edibles, pack them in a bag of regular gummies and seal it with glue or tape. You can also put them in a prenatal gummies container or a small vitamin bottle.
Secondly, it is recommended to pack the edibles in your carry-on bag instead of checked luggage. This is because security personnel may riffle through checked luggage more thoroughly. When packing in your carry-on, treat the edibles like regular snacks and avoid hiding them in secret compartments, as this may arouse suspicion. Simply mix them with regular candy, and they are less likely to draw attention.
Additionally, consider the consistency of the edibles. Some travellers have reported that food items with certain consistencies may trigger a security search. Thus, it is advisable to remove the edibles from their packaging and place them in a bin during the security check to avoid raising suspicion.
It is also essential to be aware of the legal consequences of carrying edibles. While the chances of getting caught are slim, marijuana is still federally illegal in the United States, and the laws vary across states. For international travel, be extremely cautious as some countries have strict laws against drugs, which could result in severe penalties.
Lastly, when making your own edibles, ensure you use the correct ingredients and equipment. This includes cannabis-infused oil, such as cannabis-infused MCT oil, coconut oil, butter, or other types of infused oils. You can also add lecithin to help emulsify the mixture. Always be cautious and consume edibles responsibly.
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Marijuana dispensaries near airport
Marijuana dispensaries in close proximity to Denver Airport include LivWell on Tower Road, Native Roots Tower, and Kind Love on Quentin Street. There are also dispensaries in the neighbourhoods of Gateway and Green Valley Ranch, which are close to the airport.
Although marijuana dispensaries are near the airport, it is illegal to consume marijuana on airport property. It is also illegal to take marijuana across state lines, and the TSA does not allow marijuana in carry-on luggage. However, some travellers have reported that their bags were searched, and their marijuana products were put back in without comment. Others have reported that their products were confiscated. It is important to note that the TSA is not actively looking for marijuana, but if found, they will likely dispose of it.
If you are planning to fly with marijuana, it is recommended to put it in something inconspicuous and sealed, such as a bag of regular gummies. It is also advised to pack it in your carry-on bag, as checked luggage is more likely to be searched.
For those who are unable to visit a dispensary, Native Roots Cannabis offers a delivery service to residences near the airport for a flat rate of $10.
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Legal consequences of getting caught
Although marijuana is legal in Colorado, it is not permitted on Denver Airport property. If you are caught with marijuana gummies at the airport, the consequences will depend on various factors, including the quantity of gummies, your destination, and the relevant jurisdiction. Here are some potential legal consequences to consider:
- Confiscation: If you are caught with a small quantity of gummies, the authorities will likely confiscate them. They are not actively looking for drugs, but if they find them, they may take them away without further punishment. This is especially true if you are travelling within the United States.
- Fines: In some cases, you may face a small fine for possessing marijuana gummies at the airport. While marijuana possession is legal in Colorado, the airport is considered a public arena, and consuming or smoking it openly is unlawful.
- Jail Time: If you are caught with a large amount of gummies or are travelling internationally, the consequences can be more severe. Certain countries have strict laws regarding drugs, and you could face jail time or other penalties. Federal agents may pursue additional criminal charges if you are attempting to transport a significant quantity of gummies.
- Additional Screening: Even if you are not caught with gummies, if you are suspected of carrying drugs, you may be subjected to additional screening and searches. Your bag may be pulled for additional screening, and drug dogs may be used to detect the presence of illegal substances.
- Legal Fees: If you are charged with possession of marijuana at the Denver Airport, you may need to hire a drug crime attorney to represent you. This can result in legal fees and other associated costs.
It is important to remember that attempting to transport marijuana through an airport, especially in large quantities, is illegal and can have serious consequences. While the chances of getting caught may be slim, the potential risks, including confiscation, fines, and jail time, should be carefully considered before taking any illegal substances through Denver Airport.
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Frequently asked questions
No, Denver International Airport has banned the possession, consumption, use, display, transfer, transport, distribution, and sale of marijuana. However, there is a dispensary called Native Roots Tower located very close to the airport, which you can reach by car, taxi, bus, or Uber/Lyft.
Although it is illegal to possess marijuana at Denver Airport, some travellers have reported successfully bringing edibles with them on flights departing from the airport. If you do decide to bring gummies with you, it is recommended that you remove them from their original packaging and place them in a ziplock bag, as TSA agents are unlikely to test suspicious substances for THC. However, if they are found, they will likely be confiscated, and you may face additional charges or penalties.
If you are caught with gummies or other edibles at Denver Airport, your gummies will likely be confiscated. In most cases, the matter will be passed on to state jurisdiction, and you may face a small fine or a short amount of jail time. However, if you are caught with a large amount of marijuana, federal agents may pursue additional criminal charges.
