If you’ve ever wondered whether cannabis is legal in Arizona, the answer is yes.
In fact, Arizona is one of 23 states, as well as Washington D.C., that has fully legalized marijuana for adults aged 21 and older.
Obtaining marijuana in Arizona is as easy as purchasing a six-pack of beer.
However, there are a few things you should know if you’re interested in this once-forbidden plant.
In this article, we’ll provide you with some background information on marijuana in Arizona.
We’ll cover what you need to know about the legalization of marijuana in the state, as well as some important things to keep in mind if you’re thinking about trying it out for yourself.
So, whether you’re a seasoned marijuana user or just curious about the plant, keep reading to learn more.
How Marijuana Laws in Arizona Have Changed
Arizona has undergone significant changes in marijuana laws in recent years.
In 2010, medical marijuana was legalized, which allowed patients with qualifying medical conditions to possess and use marijuana.
Prior to this, possessing any amount of marijuana could result in a felony arrest and jail time.
In 2020, voters passed Proposition 207, which legalized adult-use or recreational marijuana for those who are 21 years or older.
The Smart and Safe Act, which was included in Proposition 207, imposes a 16% excise tax on marijuana sales.
Rules for Legal Use of Marijuana in Arizona
If you are an adult aged 21 or older in Arizona, you are legally allowed to possess up to an ounce of marijuana flower or five grams of concentrate.
However, it is important to note that smoking or vaping marijuana in public spaces is illegal, regardless of whether you have a medical card or not.
It is also illegal to sell marijuana unless you are a licensed establishment.
Medical card holders are allowed to possess more than twice the amount of marijuana than recreational users.
Remember, just like alcohol, marijuana should only be used by adults and kept away from minors.
Marijuana Dispensaries in Arizona
As of September 1, 2023, there were a total of 148 state-licensed marijuana dispensaries operating in Arizona.
These dispensaries offer both medical and recreational marijuana products.
While the number of licenses in Arizona is lower than some other states, dispensaries are still numerous in urban areas.
Delivery services are also available from licensed establishments.
The Arizona Department of Health Services oversees the state’s legal marijuana industry.
How to Purchase Marijuana Legally in Arizona
When buying marijuana legally in Arizona, expect to wait in line behind other customers, especially on a Friday.
Make sure to bring a government-issued ID, even if you have a medical card.
Most dispensaries only accept cash and have ATMs available, while a few accept debit cards.
Budtenders are available to answer your questions about the different brands of smokeable flower, vaping options, edibles like gummies, topical salves, and other products infused with concentrated cannabis.
What Benefit Do You Get From a Medical Marijuana Card?
If you are a medical patient in need of marijuana for medical use, obtaining a medical marijuana card in Arizona can provide you with several benefits.
Although the number of medical marijuana patients has dropped since the legalization of recreational pot, having a medical marijuana card can still be advantageous.
Firstly, having a medical marijuana card allows you to avoid paying the 16% excise tax that recreational buyers must pay.
This can result in significant savings for medical patients who require marijuana for their medical conditions.
Secondly, medical patients with a valid card have extra rights, including protection against discrimination in employment for testing positive for marijuana in a drug test.
Thirdly, obtaining a medical marijuana card allows you to purchase marijuana from dispensaries that only cater to medical patients.
These dispensaries often have a wider range of products and strains to choose from, which can be beneficial for medical patients with specific qualifying conditions such as anxiety.
Finally, obtaining a medical marijuana card also allows caregivers to purchase marijuana on behalf of the patient, which can be helpful for patients who are unable to visit the dispensary themselves.
Overall, obtaining a medical marijuana card in Arizona can provide several benefits for medical patients in need of marijuana for medical use.
Marijuana Cultivation at Home
If you are an adult aged 21 or older, you are allowed to cultivate up to six marijuana plants in your home.
The maximum limit for home cultivation is 12 plants.
However, it is important to note that the plants must be grown in an enclosed area on the residence’s grounds, such as a closet, room, or greenhouse.
This enclosed area must be equipped with a lock or other security device that prevents access by minors.
Remember not to grow marijuana plants in your front-lawn garden.
How to Legally Share the Harvest
If you have a surplus of legally grown marijuana, you may be wondering how you can share it without getting in trouble with the law.
Fortunately, Arizona state law allows you to give up to six live plants or an ounce of marijuana to another adult.
However, it is important to note that selling or trading marijuana is illegal and can result in fines, penalties, and even jail time.
If you have manufactured hashish using non-chemical extraction methods like sieving or ice water separation, you can give up to five grams of homemade hash to another adult.
It is important to remember that using chemical extraction methods is illegal and can result in felony charges, fines, and even jail time.
If you have been convicted of a marijuana-related offense in the past, you may be eligible for expungement.
This can help clear your record and make it easier for you to legally share your harvest.
However, it is important to consult with a lawyer to understand the process and requirements for expungement.
Overall, sharing your legally grown marijuana can be a great way to spread the benefits of this plant to others.
Just make sure to follow the laws and regulations to avoid any fines or penalties.
Where to Find Information on Legal Marijuana in Arizona
If you are looking for more information on legal marijuana in Arizona, there are several resources available to you.
The Arizona Department of Health Services website is a great place to start.
Here, you can find FAQs on the laws and rules, as well as reports on sales, dispensary locations, and more.
Additionally, you can use DHS’s up-to-date map of all Arizona medical and recreational facilities to find dispensaries near you.
If you have specific questions regarding legal marijuana in Arizona, you may want to consult with a counselor or legal expert.
It is important to note that while marijuana is legal in Arizona at the state level, it is still illegal at the federal level.
This means that policies regarding marijuana use and employment may vary, and community colleges may have their own drug-free workplace policies.
For more information on legal marijuana in Arizona, you can also follow local news outlets or reach out to reporters who cover the topic.
