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Dispatches from public radio's correspondent at the Oregon Legislature. This is a venue for political and policy coverage of the state government in Salem and its impact on the people of Oregon.

Recreational Marijuana In Oregon: What You Need To Know

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Oregon's voter-approved legalization of recreational marijuana takes effect July 1.

July 1 will be a big day in Oregon for adults who like to use marijuana. That's when the state's voter-approved legalization of recreational pot takes effect.

Here’s a rundown of some of the things you need to know about the new law.

First, some basics: You have to be at least 21. You can't have more than eight ounces of the drug in your house at any given time. And you certainly can't use it while you're driving.

But what else? You're only allowed to use marijuana at home or on private property. Never in a public place.

If you can be seen by someone walking down the sidewalk, then you're probably going to be in violation.

So we have our first grey area: Is sitting on your front porch a public place?

"I think the general rule on that is that if you can be seen by someone walking down the sidewalk, then you're probably going to be in violation,” marijuana industry lobbyist Geoff Sugerman explained.

So, front porches are out, unless perhaps you live out in the country. But what about your backyard? That seems to be okay. But let's say you're the neighbor. And let's say you've fired up the grill. And let's say the smell of sizzling steaks is overpowered by the smell of someone in the next yard enjoying their Measure 91 privileges.

Technically, your neighbor is in the clear. But Salem Police Lieutenant Dave Okada said a little neighborly chat may be in order.

"If it's your neighbor, and you have that relationship with your neighbor and it's bothering you, just like anything else that your neighbor may do that's annoying you or creating issues, we encourage people to try to work it out amongst themselves if they can possibly do that,” Okada said.

Using marijuana in public will carry a punishment equivalent to a traffic ticket.

Using marijuana in public will carry a punishment equivalent to a traffic ticket. So Okada said if you do see someone walking down the street smoking pot, don't call 911. It may be illegal, but it probably isn't an emergency.

"We always advise people to look at the circumstances,” Okada said. “A lot of times, it's just people not being aware of what the law says."

So if marijuana is going mainstream, does that mean we'll be seeing ads for it when we drive down the road or flip on the TV? The late Peter Tosh once sang that he was eagerly anticipating the day when he could inform others of his willingness to sell them pot.

"Legalize it and I will advertise it,” he sang.

So, could Peter Tosh advertise marijuana in Oregon? It depends on the context and the content. Marketing to kids is a no-no, but a spokesman for the Oregon Liquor Control Commission, which will regulate retail sales of marijuana, said the ballot measure itself contains no limits on advertising.

The Oregon Liquor Control Commission says the ballot measure itself contains no limits on advertising.

The Commission plans to draw up rules for advertising later this year, keeping in mind the state's robust protections of free speech. But Sugerman thinks a lot of concerns about cannabis will gradually subside.

"I think in a very short period of time, we're going to go back to our normal lives, and nothing is really going to be that much different,” he said.

Except, of course, that marijuana will be legal.