Overview
- The City Council voted 7-0 to prohibit cannabis smoking or vaping in sidewalks, parks, beaches, parking garages and other public areas within city limits.
- The ordinance takes effect Jan. 1, 2026, with civil penalties of up to $100 or five hours of community service for a first offense and up to $250 or 10 hours for a second offense within a year.
- Glen Cove police are authorized to issue summonses, and officials framed the measure as a quality-of-life response to widespread odor complaints.
- News reports say Glen Cove is the first community in Nassau County with a citywide public-use ban, and the city previously opted out of cannabis retail.
- Legal experts warn the cannabis-only restriction could conflict with New York State law and note the lack of medical exceptions, while some residents say renters may be left without a place to smoke.