Did you just move to a state where cannabis is legal, and you are making plans to buy some weed from a dispensary? Do you wish to know how to behave during your first visit? No one would blame you for your curiosity because marijuana dispensaries have rules, and they expect customers to abide by them.
This article covers the vital things you need to know about behaving properly at a dispensary as a first timer.
What is a Marijuana Dispensary?
A marijuana dispensary is an authorized shop or outlet where cannabis and its related products are sold for medical and recreational use. Dispensaries are usually found in states where weed is legal, which means you won’t be breaking any laws when you buy your cannabis from these shops as long as you are an adult.
There are also delivery services for cannabis. A dispensary delivery is literally the opposite. Instead of you going to the dispensary, they literally come to you. Simply call or go on the app, pick your strain, and a delivery driver will bring it within 30-60 minutes.
Difference between Medical and Recreational Dispensary
Knowing the difference between a medical and recreational dispensary would save you from the trouble of visiting the wrong shop.
Medical Dispensary
A medical dispensary is a weed shop designed for people who need access to cannabis for medical reasons. They must, however, provide proof of their medical condition and recommendation from their doctor before they are allowed to buy any products in the dispensary.
When going to a medical dispensary, don’t forget to take your ID and a letter of recommendation because you will have to clear yourself at the reception before meeting the budtender.
Many people like to visit a medical dispensary because it is relatively cheaper than a recreational dispensary. The government allows them to pay less on taxes because a letter of recommendation is always paid for and can be renewed.
If you are looking for different CBD products, you will have the best bet going to a medical marijuana store. They’re used more often within medical patients who don’t want to get a high feeling.
Recreational Dispensary
A recreational dispensary, on the other hand, is a dispensary that offers a more flexible option when purchasing marijuana products. All you need to access a recreational dispensary is your cash and ID card to verify your identity and age.
Recreational shops are more prone to carry headshop products. For example, dab rigs which are used to smoke wax with a water pipe can often be found at recreational dispensaries. You can also get clear eyes and lighters there too. However, they do not sell tobacco or tobacco products like swishers.
What to do at a Dispensary
Ask Questions
It is normal to be a bit overwhelmed by the setting of a dispensary since it’s your first time. Certain questions might pop-up in your mind, feel free to ask them. It might be about specific recommendations or edibles and their dosage, make sure you ask enough questions to clarify things.
Tip the Budtender
In a dispensary, the budtender is your lead. They pretty much guide you on many things you might be oblivious to. They are in the same way similar to waiters or waitresses, barmen, and so on. You need to keep up the good spirit of giving tips. You will notice how friendly most of them are and how well they can handle the questions you ask them. You should be able to show some appreciation by giving them extra cash to support and encourage a job well done.
Cash not Cards
Most dispensaries generally accept cash payments only. It’s rare to find one that offers credit or debit cards as a payment option. This shouldn’t come as a surprise because cannabis is still illegal, according to the federal government.
Although Bitcoin is not widely used or accepted, it is currently being used at some dispensaries. Using Bitcoin for vapes or cannabis is starting to gain traction. With a lot of dispensary owners not being able to deposit cash into their bank accounts due to federal regulations, cryptocurrencies have found a way around that.
What not to do at a Dispensary
Don’t Haggle
It’s normal for people to haggle over a price, but this act is unacceptable in a marijuana dispensary. The business owners fixed the prices of the products, and you would be dealing with the budtenders who are just employees. Haggling or forcing them to sell at a lower price than the stimulated amount could make them lose their job.
It’s advisable to have an idea of the price range of the product you are seeking to buy before visiting the dispensary. A good place to find the price tags for products is the internet. You can check the dispensary’s online store to be confident about what you are buying and their prices.
Don’t Use Your Phone
Using your phone during a conversation or transaction is usually considered rude. The use of mobile devices is prohibited in some dispensaries so you can save yourself the humiliation by not using your phone in the area. Your phone should be on silent mode and out of sight while shopping for your weed.
Don’t Smoke on Premise
Not all dispensaries are ok with your smoking in there or on their premises. Even on their land, they will not let. Since this poses a risk and it is against state laws for everywhere that have legalized, store owners will not allow this. You can always go to specific marijuana lounges to sit back with your friends, relax and smoke.
Submitted by: Alex Mirzaian
