In 2020, Arizona voters legalized adult-use marijuana when they passed Proposition 207, widely known as the “Smart and Safe Arizona Act.” But even though some time has passed since then, plenty of people still have questions about marijuana laws in Arizona.
Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned cannabis consumer, it’s important to have a solid understanding of AZ cannabis regulations. We’ve put together a useful guide that covers everything you need to know about recreational cannabis laws and what they mean for you.
Is Marijuana Legal in Arizona?
Yes! Both medical marijuana and recreational cannabis have been legalized in Arizona.
Who Can Buy Medical Marijuana in Arizona?
Medical marijuana can be purchased by individuals with a valid Arizona medical marijuana card. To qualify for an MMJ card in Arizona, you must meet the AZ Department of Health Services requirements. This includes a diagnosis of one of the qualifying conditions, as well as an approved application.
AZ MMJ patients must be over the age of 18. Alternatively, individuals under 18 may be able to use medical marijuana that an approved caregiver purchases.
Who Can Buy Recreational Marijuana in Arizona?
Recreational cannabis is legal in Arizona, specifically for adults over 21, when the Safe and Smart Act (Proposition 207) passed into law in November 2020, legalizing marijuana for adult personal use. This proposition allows adults over the age of 21 to purchase, possess, transport, or process:
- 1 ounce or less of marijuana, or
- 5 grams or less of marijuana concentrate
Your Guide to Arizona Marijuana Laws
With cannabis legal in Arizona, understanding the nuances of the state’s marijuana regulations is a must – especially if you’re planning on purchasing or enjoying cannabis for your use. Here are some of the most important details of AZ marijuana regulations.
Recreational cannabis is legal in Arizona for adults aged 21 and over.
The most recent shift in the state’s cannabis laws is the legalization of adult-use (recreational) marijuana for individuals over the age of 21. But like alcohol, cannabis is still illegal to possess or consume if you are under 21. In addition, it is illegal to give marijuana to a minor/someone underage.
You can possess 1 ounce or less of cannabis at a time, of which no more than 5 grams can be cannabis concentrate.
So, how much cannabis can you have in your possession in AZ? The total limit is 1 ounce (which equals about 28.35 grams). Included in that single ounce, you can have a maximum of 5 grams of marijuana concentrate.
If you are found to be in possession of more than 1 ounce, you can be charged with a petty offense (up to 2.5 ounces) or a more severe crime (more than 2.5 ounces). Generally, first-time petty offenses come with a civil penalty capped at $100.
It is illegal to drive while under the influence of cannabis.
The legalization of cannabis has not changed Arizona’s DUI laws in any way, shape, or form. If you are found to have THC in your system, you can be charged with driving under the influence (DUI). This doesn’t just apply to operating a car but also to boats, aircraft, etc.
It is worth knowing that having a metabolite (such as carboxy-THC) in your system is not enough evidence to convict you of a crime.
Employers still have the right to prohibit cannabis use.
Even though marijuana is legal in the Grand Canyon State, employers are permitted to establish a drug-free workplace. This means that they can implement drug testing policies and prohibit the use of marijuana at work.
Medical marijuana patients do have certain protections from employer discrimination.
Public use of cannabis is not allowed.
Arizona recreational cannabis laws do not allow cannabis use in public spaces. So, before you enjoy your marijuana of choice, ensure you’re at a private residence.
The smell of marijuana does not equal reasonable suspicion.
On its own, the odor of cannabis (or burnt cannabis) is not enough to constitute suspicion of a crime. That said, the rules for lawful search and seizure are very complex. So, it is best to consult a legal professional if you find yourself in this situation.
Certain drug convictions can be expunged in AZ.
Under the new cannabis laws, certain convictions related to marijuana can be expunged. However, expungement is limited to only specific types of cannabis offenses, such as:
- Possession, consumption, or transportation of 2.5 ounces or less of cannabis, of which no more than 12.5 grams was in the form of concentrate.
- Possession, transportation, or cultivation of six cannabis plants, or less, for personal use at an individual’s primary residence.
- Possession, transportation, or use of marijuana-related paraphernalia.
If you have questions about how to get a marijuana charge expunged in Arizona, an attorney will be your best source for accurate information.
There are strict rules for the cultivation of cannabis plants.
The legalization of cannabis doesn’t mean that anyone can grow marijuana in Arizona without restriction. There are clear rules outlining how many cannabis plants are permitted (6 at most), who can grow marijuana (adults 21 and older), and what the cultivation set-up must look like.
Marijuana can only be for sale at licensed dispensaries.
No one can buy or sell cannabis outside of approved marijuana establishments and medical marijuana dispensaries in AZ.
Purchase Top-Quality Cannabis in Arizona at Our Phoenix Dispensary
Thanks to the legalization of marijuana in AZ, many adults can now enjoy elevating their lifestyle with cannabis.
However, not all dispensaries in Phoenix are the same – so why not go straight to the Valley’s number-one provider of premium cannabis products?
Giving Tree Dispensary serves medical marijuana patients and recreational adult-use consumers, offering an extensive and carefully curated selection of flowers, edibles, concentrates, vapes, and more.
We’ve sourced our products from the best brands and cultivators in the industry so you can shop confidently.
Additionally, our knowledgeable dispensary staff is always ready to answer any questions you may have, whether you want to know more about particular strains, brands, or other AZ cannabis laws.
Visit our cannabis dispensary in Phoenix, AZ, to start shopping for legal marijuana today!
Image Source: Marko Aliaksandr / Shutterstock
