In November 2020, Arizona voters came out in full force to support the legalization of recreational cannabis. And now, the AZ cannabis community is flourishing, thanks to accessible marijuana options for both recreational and medical use.
But even though marijuana has been legal in AZ for a while, there are still plenty of people that have questions – and we’re here to answer them. In this handy guide, we’re breaking down everything you need to know about buying recreational weed in AZ, as well as a few key facts about medical marijuana in the Grand Canyon State.
We’re going to cover all of the basics, including:
- How much marijuana can you buy at one time in AZ?
- Where can you buy marijuana in Arizona?
- What are the rules for cannabis consumption in AZ?
Let’s dive right in.
Everything You Need to Know About Marijuana in Arizona
First things first: Medical marijuana and adult-use recreational marijuana are both legal in Arizona.
- In order to buy medical marijuana in AZ, you need to be a licensed MMJ cardholder or an approved caregiver for an MMJ patient.
- In order to buy recreational weed in AZ, you must be 21 years of age or older.
The AZ Department of Health Services offers a detailed explanation of cannabis laws in Arizona here, but we’re going to address all the key takeaways.
Where Can You Buy Weed in AZ?
You can find marijuana in Arizona at licensed dispensaries throughout the state. Many dispensaries serve both medical marijuana patients and recreational consumers.
Medical marijuana delivery is available from approved dispensaries, and recreational marijuana delivery will be permitted once regulations are finalized.
Recreational Marijuana in Arizona
Adults 21 years or older can purchase recreational marijuana at AZ dispensaries.
Keep in mind that you will need to show proof of age/identification, such as a driver’s license.
Purchasing Limits for Recreational Marijuana in AZ
Exactly how much weed can you buy in Arizona?
The exact amounts depend on the type of cannabis product:
- Adults of age can purchase a maximum of one ounce of marijuana, with a maximum of five grams of marijuana concentrate.
The marijuana purchasing limits in AZ are the same as the state’s limits on marijuana possession: one ounce total, with no more than five grams of concentrate. Specifically, the law states:
- Notwithstanding any other law and except as otherwise provided in [A.R.S. Title 36, Chapter 28.2], a person who possesses an amount of marijuana greater than [one ounce or less of marijuana, except that not more than five grams of marijuana may be in the form of marijuana concentrate], but not more than two and one-half ounces of marijuana, of which not more than twelve and one-half grams is in the form of marijuana concentrate, is guilty of a petty offense.
Can You Buy Marijuana in Arizona if You are Not a Resident?
You do not need to be a resident of Arizona to purchase recreational cannabis in a licensed dispensary in the state. Out-of-state visitors are allowed to shop at a dispensary so long as they meet the requirements (at least 21 years old).
Medical Marijuana in Arizona
If you have a medical marijuana card in AZ, you can purchase medical marijuana. MMJ cards are available to individuals who meet specific qualifications, including adults and minors under 18. An individual may also apply to be considered a Designated Caregiver for an MMJ patient, allowing them to purchase medical cannabis on the patient’s behalf.
Purchasing Limits for Medical Marijuana in AZ
Under Arizona MMJ laws, the limits on purchasing and possession are slightly different than they are for recreational cannabis:
- A qualified patient is permitted to purchase a total of 2.5 ounces of marijuana in a 14-day period. Purchasing limits are tracked using your medical marijuana card.
If you have reached your MMJ limit, you always have the option of making a recreational cannabis purchase. The primary difference is that your recreational cannabis purchase is subject to the 16% adult-use excise tax, whereas MMJ products are not taxed.
Cannabis Consumption Laws in Arizona
Cannabis may be legal for purchase and use in AZ, but that doesn’t mean there are no rules regarding when and where you consume it. It is important to be aware of AZ marijuana consumption laws, as well as any regulations that may apply in your specific area or the property where you are located.
Can You Smoke Weed in Public in Arizona?
No. Public consumption of cannabis is not allowed in AZ.
This means that you are only allowed to smoke weed on private property, such as your home or a friend/family member’s home. The rule applies to both adult-use recreational and medical marijuana.
Driving under the influence of marijuana is also not allowed, so consider that before you partake in your favorite cannabis product.
Giving Tree is Here for the Arizona Cannabis Community
Whether you’re a seasoned consumer or a first-timer to the dispensary, our dedicated and knowledgeable team at Giving Tree Dispensary is happy to help you make the most of your experience. Giving Tree Dispensary is counted among Phoenix’s top dispensaries, serving recreational consumers and MMJ patients in the Phoenix and Glendale area.
Our dispensary offers a diverse range of product options, including premium flowers, concentrates and extracts, cartridges and oils, edibles, pre-rolls, topicals, and more. We also stock hemp-derived CBD for customers who are interested in the potential benefits of cannabinoids without the traditional “high.”
Explore our full selection of cannabis products and visit our Phoenix dispensary to start shopping now!
Photo Credits: Vuk Stajic, ShutterstockProfessional
