Can an HOA threatened police action and eviction for the use of medicial cannabis?

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Can an HOA threatened police action and eviction for the use of medicial cannabis?

I am a legal medicinal cannabis patient; I have a card and a letter issued by the state. A couple of nights ago, while I was asleep, the head of the HOA in the community where I live knocked loudly on my door and woke me up. I answered the door and she asked me if I was smoking “pot”, which I responded honestly “no I have not”. She then threatened me that if they smell it again that they will call the police. Again, I am a legal patient but I am 110% that the smell did not come from my apartment.I haven’t had any medical cannabis in my possession in over a month. And when I do have medicinal cannabis I use it very discreetly. If they call the police for smelling it in the community but its not coming from me, can the police harass me about it? Can the HOA have the owners of the apartment that I am currently renting have me evicted? If these events ever happen, what can I do to correct the issue?

Asked on January 30, 2012 under Real Estate Law, Nevada

Answers:

FreeAdvice Contributing Attorney / FreeAdvice Contributing Attorney

Answered 12 years ago | Contributor

Yes, the HOA in the planned unit development where you reside can threaten police action against you for your use of medical marijuana. However, since you have a valid medical marijuana card, you are not doing anything illegal. If you are charged with the use of marijuana by law enforcement, you have the medical marijuana card issued to you as a defense to any criminal charges.

As to you being evicted via pressure of the HOA on the landlord, your use of marijuana is valid since you have the medical marijuana card. For the HOA to pressure the landlord to evict you for the marijuana use would be like the HOA wanting to evict you due to religious, racial, ethnic or gender reasons which would be discriminatory and illegal under the laws of this country.

If the eviction issue is raised due to the marijuana use, advise the person that your use is legal. If the eviction matter proceeds, consult with a landlord tenant attorney about the subject.


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