Arizona approved recreational marijuana in the November 2020 election, with the passing of the Smart and Safe Arizona Act. Recreational sales began on January 22, 2021.
Sales were able to begin so soon after legalization by allowing Arizona's robust medical marijuana market to apply for recreational licenses, and begin sales as soon as they are approved. While not all medical dispensaries have been approved for dual-use, many have. Check the map below to see which dispensaries are offering recreational cannabis sales.
FAQs
Is marijuana legal in Arizona?
Both medical and recreational marijuana are legal in Arizona. The state legalized recreational (or “adult-use”) cannabis in 2020, with the Smart and Safe Arizona Act. Medical marijuana has been legal in the state since 2010, and has since created a thriving cannabis culture there. Both medical and recreational cannabis sales are permitted.
How can I get my medical marijuana card in Arizona?
If you are a resident of Arizona (either as an adult or under 18 years of age), you may apply to receive a medical marijuana card. In order to qualify, you must be assessed by a doctor and have a “debilitating condition” like severe and chronic pain, cancer, etc. Arizona medical marijuana cards typically expire one year after the issue date.
Can I use my medical marijuana card from another state in Arizona?
Although Arizona offers limited reciprocity for “visiting qualifying patients,” out-of-state patients cannot buy marijuana in Arizona.
Where can I buy marijuana in Arizona?
Numerous medical dispensaries have been granted licenses to sell recreational marijuana. Sales began January 22, 2021.
Medical dispensaries continue operate in the state. While not all medical dispensaries offer recreational sales, all recreational facilities are dual-licensed at this time.
What do I need to purchase cannabis from a marijuana dispensary in Arizona?
Adults 21+ with valid ID can purchase from any recreational-licensed cannabis dispensary. Many (but not all) of the state's medical dispensaries have been granted a license for adult-use sales. In order to purchase medical marijuana, you will still need a valid Arizona medical marijuana card.
How much marijuana can I possess at one time in Arizona?
Adults 21 and over may possess up to 1 ounce of cannabis, or up to 5 grams of concentrate.
Medical marijuana patients are allowed 2.5 ounces bi-weekly. Additionally, patients who live 25 miles or further from a dispensary are allowed to grow up to 12 plants.
What types of marijuana are currently available in Arizona?
There are various types of marijuana to purchase including many strains of flower, concentrates (like hash and oil), edibles (including candy and baked goods), drinks, topicals and other preparations.
Where can I smoke marijuana in Arizona?
Although marijuana is legal in Arizona, you cannot consume it in public. Marijuana must be consumed on private property.
Can I travel with marijuana from Arizona to another state or country?
No, all marijuana purchased in Arizona must be consumed within the state. Because marijuana is still illegal on a federal level, traveling with cannabis over state lines is illegal.
Can I get a DUI for using marijuana in Arizona?
Yes. The Smart and Safe Marijuana Act states that, “driving, flying or boating while impaired to the slightest degree by marijuana remains illegal.” Furthermore, in 2014, the Arizona Court of Appeals ruled that Arizona’s medical marijuana law does not give immunity from prosecution if the user tests positive for THC.
Can I possess a gun and use medical marijuana in Arizona?
As with other states with legalized cannabis of any kind, medical marijuana patients are not allowed to possess a gun or ammunition thanks to the federal Gun Control Act of 1968. Although this is a dated initiative, there have been no cases of users being prosecuted for owning a gun and being a medical marijuana patient.