Weed etiquette? Rules? What is this, boarding school? You’re a free spirit, and rules are meant to be broken, yes, but when it comes to weed etiquette, breaking the rules may be the reason your smoking buddies have been so “busy” lately. But don’t worry – we’ve compiled a few Dos and Don’ts that should help keep everyone happy.

Don’t Torch the Bowl

Lighting too much of the bowl ends up being wasteful and can result in a huge hit that you weren’t prepared for (in this case, try to exhale completely before coughing, or it will hurt your throat and make you cough even more). Be modest, there’s no rush.

Don’t Complain

Words hurt. If you don’t like the rolling job, don’t smoke it! Even better, offer to roll up next time. Everyone loves that guy!

Pass to the Left

Left is law. None of those fancy figure-8 maneuvers. Keep it simple and make sure no one misses out. That is poor form and is going to get you shunned, FAST. Be sure to warn the next toker in line if you think the bowl is burned out (even better is to refill it and pass it over) and always…

Keep the Mouthpiece Dry

There is nothing worse than waiting patiently for your turn only to be passed a slobbery piece or soggy joint. I’m sure we’ve all been there. Keep it dry, or at the very least, wipe it off before you pass it on.

Don’t Be Clumsy

Be careful not to break any glass pieces or spill the bong water or the weed. If you do, you can save the day by reading #5 and #6 from these helpful tips on how to clean up spilled weed. Take care while handling and be gentle. If you damage someone else’s belongings, be quick to offer reimbursement. Smashing someone’s glass is akin to tearing their heart out of their chest. Be kind to your fellow cannabis enthusiasts.

Know Your Limit

A common mistake that nearly everyone makes at one point. Take some time between your hits — what’s the rush, anyways? Keep in mind that different strains and methods of smoking yield will different effects. Edibles and concentrates can be easy to overdo it with. Be patient so you can reach that sweet spot without spoiling it. And one of my greatest pet peeves; never force others to overdo it. Not everyone has the same tolerance as you, so when you’re getting ready to give your newbie friend their first dab, please, please, start small. And then take that and cut it in half. You don’t want to ruin the experience for them!

Pick a Safe Sesh Spot

Don’t get high in a place that you don’t feel safe. This is never a good idea and is more than likely going to leave you or someone you’re with feeling paranoid and anxious. If someone does have some horrible anxiety from consuming cannabis, check these tips out for managing THC-induced anxiety. Likewise, make sure you are comfortable with the group you are smoking with — you always want to be in a safe, carefree environment when you are getting high. Alternatively, don’t be obvious about smoking cannabis or being high in public. We get it, you smoke weed.

Pro tip: Smoking in public can increase anxiety, but it is also illegal. If you are looking for a safe smoke spot, always look to smoke on private property! If you must consume cannabis in public, be discreet and act like a grown up, please.

BYO Bud and Food

No one likes the person who never brings any bud and happily gets high at everyone else’s expense. Don’t be that person. If you don’t have any weed to bring, offer to pitch some money or food for everyone to enjoy. The best stoners always bring some sexy new smoking papers to try or have some incredible munchies on hand to share with friends.

Never Blow Smoke in Someone’s Face

I can’t believe I have to include this, but as a reminder, never blow smoke in someone’s face. As an accident or a joke. It’s a sure-fire way to spoil the mood and it is just plain rude. Modern day cannabis enthusiasts are not assholes, do not be one. You’re representing all of us now.

Have an Activity Planned

In order to prevent the inevitable and unending “What do you wanna do?”, “I don’t know, what do you guys wanna do?”, have a suggestion in mind before you get high. This is going to save a lot of wasted time and will be greatly appreciated by everyone! Think about local places within walking distance of where you will be and create an adventure. Scavenger hunts are a sure way to bring the party, just do a little prep beforehand. If you’re a lazy toker, Google is your friend.

Never Joke About the Cops

Joking about the cops is a sure fire way to kill the vibe and put everyone on edge. Don’t do it.

Keep Up the Good Vibes

Be courteous and make sure to everyone feels welcome and at ease. This goes a long way — if you make people feel uneasy or unwelcome, intentionally or not, chances are they won’t want to light up with you again.

Overall getting high in a group shouldn’t be a chore, it should be enjoyable experience for everyone involved. What are some of the no-no’s in your friend group? Let us know in the comments below and be sure to send this guide to anyone that might need an etiquette reminder!