COLUMBUS, Ohio — Recreational marijuana is legal in Ohio, but don't plan on lighting up inside or outside Ohio Stadium.
Ohio State University Police Division says officers will be on the lookout for those breaking the law.
"Smoking inside the stadium is banned so you can't smoke tobacco or recreational marijuana outside the normal rules of the Ohio Revised Code apply," said Eric Whiteside, Deputy Chief Ohio State University Police Division.
Similar to alcohol, use of non-medical cannabis by individuals under the age of 21 is prohibited, and individuals who provide cannabis to minors can potentially face fines as well as possible jail time. In addition, Ohio’s law prohibiting smoking or vaping in public indoor spaces applies to marijuana as well. Like alcohol, it is illegal to operate a vehicle while under the influence of cannabis.
Police also laid out other security guidelines ahead of the 2024 season.
Game time is meant for football, and police say it's not a time for amateur photographers to launch a drone over the stadium. If that happens police say they will order it down.
"We do have a drone detection so if anybody puts up anywhere on campus we are going to know about it," said Deputy Chief Whiteside.
For fans driving to the game, remember that Cannon Drive will no longer be a public throughway. Cannon Drive is limited to those with west stadium parking passes. Access to the lot is from the north and the south.
"There is no longer that Cannon Drive S curve is gone. It is just one large parking lot," said Ericka Hoon, the Associate Athletic Director Event Management.
Law enforcement will not only be monitoring traffic, but the air above the stadium to guard against any terrorism, including potential chemical attacks.
"We have air monitoring devices set up around the stadium. We have constantly ability to see what the air quality is like," says Tom Novotny Director of Environmental Affairs.
As in years past, fans will continue to pass through metal detectors before entering the stadium and the no bag policy remains in effect. small bags will be permitted. Parking prices will remain cashless and prices range from $25 to $30 at the parking lots.