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While smoking cigarettes is legal in the USVI, it is unclear whether smoking is permitted in the St. Thomas airport. However, airports in the USVI typically have designated smoking areas. Additionally, while the use of cannabis is not legal in St. Thomas, it is readily available and law enforcement tends to turn a blind eye. Nevertheless, possessing or selling cannabis without a prescription remains technically illegal.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Smoking cigarettes in St. Thomas Airport | Allowed in designated areas |
| Smoking in taxis | Not allowed |
| Smoking on the beach | Allowed |
| Smoking in public buildings | Not allowed |
| Smoking in private buildings | Not allowed |
| Smoking in county parks | Not allowed |
| Smoking in the car with under-18s | Not allowed |
| Legal status of marijuana | Technically illegal, but readily available and cops turn a blind eye |
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What You'll Learn
Smoking laws in St. Thomas
While I could not find explicit information about smoking laws in St. Thomas airport, I did find some information about smoking laws in St. Thomas and the US Virgin Islands more broadly.
The Virgin Islands Smoke-free Act, which came into effect in February 2011, prohibits smoking in virtually all areas open to the public and protects individuals from involuntary exposure to tobacco smoke. Smoking is prohibited in any enclosed or exposed public areas, including healthcare facilities, restaurants, bars, hotels, resorts, beaches, parks, and educational facilities. The Act also prohibits smoking within 20 feet of any entrance, exit, window, ventilation system, or other openings of any public place or place of employment.
The USVI Department of Health (DOH) has also launched a "Be Smoke-Free Tobacco Campaign" to alert residents and visitors to the dangers of smoking and second-hand smoke, especially for children's health. The campaign includes video and radio PSAs, billboards, and promotions on social media.
It is worth noting that while the USVI legislature has passed a medical marijuana law, the rules and regulations around it are still not in effect. Therefore, it is technically illegal to sell or possess marijuana in St. Thomas, but it is readily available and law enforcement turns a blind eye.
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Buying cannabis in St. Thomas
Although the USVI legislature passed a medical marijuana law, the rules and regulations around it are still in limbo and have not been enacted. Therefore, it is technically illegal to sell or possess cannabis in St. Thomas without a prescription. However, it is readily available and easy to find.
You can ask around at any bar, gas station, hotel, or even on the beach. While it is illegal, there is no stigma around it, and people are unlikely to get caught for buying recreational amounts. One user on Reddit reported that they simply asked a cab driver, and then when looking at pipes in a duty-free shop, they were approached several times by sellers. Another user reported that they asked a bartender, and a third that they just stood still and looked lost, and someone approached them.
It is best to be careful to not get ripped off, as one user reported that they were offered lawn clippings by a kid, and another reported that people tried to overcharge them. However, when they refused and walked away, the sellers immediately lowered the price.
Although it is illegal to smoke in public, including on beaches, one user reported seeing a business in STT that clearly stated it was 420-friendly, implying that they would not stop customers from lighting up.
Please note that while it may be easy to buy and smoke cannabis in St. Thomas, it is still a federal offense to be caught traveling into the island with it.
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Transporting cannabis to St. Thomas
As of 2023, cannabis remains illegal in the U.S. Virgin Islands, including St. Thomas, until regulations are completed. The Virgin Islands Cannabis Use Act, signed into law on January 18, 2023, allows for the legal use and sale of cannabis by adults but won't officially go into effect until after rules and regulations are enacted. Therefore, it is still prohibited to transport cannabis to St. Thomas.
That being said, possession of small amounts of cannabis (up to one ounce) has been decriminalized in St. Thomas, resulting in only a $100 fine. Medical marijuana is also legal in St. Thomas with a prescription, and non-residents can obtain a temporary medical marijuana card if they have a valid medical weed card from any U.S. state or country.
It is important to note that even when cannabis is fully legalized in St. Thomas, some activities will remain against the law. Public cannabis use will still be illegal, as will transporting cannabis between islands without a permit. Additionally, due to the federal illegality of marijuana, possession and consumption will be prohibited at all federal facilities.
If you are considering transporting cannabis to St. Thomas, it is crucial to be aware of the legal risks involved. While simple possession has been decriminalized, transporting cannabis without a permit remains illegal. Therefore, it is advisable to wait until the regulations are finalized and follow the proper procedures to obtain and transport cannabis legally to St. Thomas.
For individuals seeking to use cannabis in St. Thomas, it may be advisable to wait until the laws and regulations are finalized and purchase cannabis from local dispensaries or obtain a medical marijuana card if eligible. This way, you can ensure compliance with the local laws and avoid any potential legal repercussions.
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Where to smoke in St. Thomas airport
Although smoking is allowed in the USVI, there are designated smoking areas in the St. Thomas airport. You can also smoke on the beach, in the streets, and on the water. However, smoking is prohibited in public buildings, private offices, and vehicles with passengers under the age of 18. While it is not allowed to smoke in taxis, some people do smoke in restaurants with non-smoking dining areas and bars.
If you are looking for specific smoking areas within the St. Thomas airport, follow the signs or ask airport staff for directions to the designated smoking areas. These areas are typically located outdoors or in ventilated spaces to accommodate smokers while complying with local regulations. It is important to respect the designated smoking areas and consider the comfort and health of those around you.
Additionally, keep in mind that smoking laws and regulations can change over time. While smoking may be permitted in certain areas at the time of your visit, it is always a good idea to stay informed about any updates or changes to these regulations.
When smoking in public places, it is important to be mindful of others around you. Some individuals may be sensitive to second-hand smoke or have respiratory conditions. Respecting personal space and following any posted signage or guidelines regarding smoking will help ensure a pleasant experience for everyone.
Lastly, remember to properly dispose of cigarette butts and smoking materials in designated receptacles to maintain a clean and safe environment for all travelers and staff at the St. Thomas airport.
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Where to buy cigarettes in St. Thomas airport
It is unclear whether cigarettes are available for purchase at St. Thomas Airport. One source suggests that they do not sell cigarettes at the airport, but another source suggests that they might sell them before customs. If you are looking to buy cigarettes at the airport, it is best to check with the airport directly.
If you are unable to purchase cigarettes at the airport, there are other places on the island where you can buy them. One option is to buy them downtown, where shops sell cartons 3 for $59, or individually at Dolphin Market in St. John for $4.00 per pack. You can also find cartons at Kmart for $17.99, and at Cost U Less on STT for $22.20. If you're staying towards the East end of the island, you may find lower prices at Plaza Extra in the Tutu Park Mall.
It is worth noting that cigarettes are heavily taxed in the northeast, so you may find that buying cigarettes in St. Thomas could save you money. However, keep in mind that buying and selling marijuana is still technically illegal in St. Thomas, despite its ready availability.
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Frequently asked questions
Yes, smoking is permitted in designated areas of the airport.
Yes, smoking cigarettes is legal in St. Thomas. However, you cannot smoke in public buildings, private offices, or taxis.
Although the USVI legislature passed a medical marijuana law, the rules and regulations have not been enacted. Therefore, it is technically illegal to sell or possess cannabis in St. Thomas. However, it is readily available and the cops usually turn a blind eye.
You can usually find people selling cannabis on the beaches, especially Coki Beach. You can also try asking a bartender, a local, or simply standing still and looking lost.
It is not recommended to fly in with cannabis as it is still a federal offense if you are caught en route.
