Proposed in Sandwich Bylaw Would Issue Fines for Public Marijuana Use

SANDWICH – A bylaw has been proposed in Sandwich that would result in fines for the use of marijuana in public.

Sandwich police are looking to follow several other cape towns that instituted a similar bylaw in 2009.

If approved, the bylaw would result in a $300 fine for individuals caught using the drug in public places like streets, beaches, parks, docks and other locations that are frequented by visitors.

“By proposing something like this it will make our community safer and more appeasing to the public and folks that are visiting our community,” said Sandwich Police Chief Peter Wack.

Wack believes keeping the drug out of public places would benefit the town that depends on tourism.

“The one thing that would be detrimental to our community would be if there was a strong presence of marijuana in places like the boardwalk – places where people go from all over the country to visit,” he said.

Wack said the bylaw mirrors the current regulations that prohibit the consumption of alcohol in public places.

Police would like to have the bylaw in effect with a potential statewide legalization vote coming this fall.

The proposal is currently being reviewed by town attorneys. It will then head to the Board of Selectmen for approval before it goes to town meeting voters.

“We’re anticipating having it on town meetings warrant in May,” Wack said.