Is weed legal in Alaska? This state has experienced many weed-related legislation changes in the past few years. Knowing the laws is vital, whether you want to take a trip or enjoy a blunt on your balcony.
You’ll be happy to know you can possess, consume, and cultivate cannabis in The Last Frontier. Limitations and guidelines exist, but knowing them helps you stay on the right side of the law.
Read on as we unpack more on the legislation governing cannabis in Alaska and what it means for you.
History of cannabis legalization in Alaska
Alaska was the second state in the USA to legalize medicinal marijuana in 1998. Residents passed The Alaska Medical Marijuana Initiative (Measure 8) with a 58.67% vote.
Measure 8 made weed legal in Alaska for specific medicinal reasons only.
Alaska passed Ballot Measure 2 in 2014. It became the third state to legalize recreational marijuana. It allows consumption and cultivation for residents over 21.
The Alaska Marijuana Control Board approved the consumption of on-site cannabis in 2019. This law only applies to licensed retailers. Adults can use cannabis freely inside these places.
Is weed legal in Alaska?
Weed is legal in Alaska, but there are still limits. Ballot Measure 2 determines the possession, consumption, and cultivation allowances for Alaskans. Let’s unpack the legislation on each aspect.
Possession
People over 21 may possess up to one ounce of weed in Alaska. You can’t have hashish, hashish oil, or other mixtures containing concentrated THC. It’s a Schedule III substance, punishable by up to one year of imprisonment and a $25,000 fine.
You may carry edibles containing up to 10 milligrams of THC per serving. The total amount per packaged product can be 50–100 milligrams. Producers must test all items at a lab and ensure no product exceeds 20% of its labeled potency.
Possession of one to four ounces in public may land you in prison for a year with a fine of up to $10,000. This penalty doesn’t apply to personal use in your private residence. The Alaskan constitutional right to privacy protects consumers in this case.
The law considers it a Class C felony to possess over four ounces of cannabis. The typical penalty is five years’ imprisonment and/or a $50,000 fine.
Weed legalization in Alaska applies to adults or caregivers for medical minors.
The law is serious about protecting minors from mind-altering substances. It’s a severe offense to carry cannabis within 500 feet of a youth center, school bus, or school grounds. Doing so could result in a $50,000 fine and up to five years’ imprisonment.
Consumption
You may only consume cannabis cultivars high in CBD or THC in your private residence in Alaska. According to the Smokefree Alaska Law, you can’t puff away in a public setting. This act is in place to protect people and children from secondhand smoke.
Under Alaska’s weed laws, you’re not allowed to smoke or vape in these areas:
- Places of employment
- Shore-based fisheries
- Public or government assemblies
- Hotels and other vacation venues
- Offices
- Shopping centers
- Educational facilities
- Public transportation
- Multiple-family dwelling areas (specifically where minors gather)
- Child-care facilities
- Entertainment or sporting venues
- Restaurants and pubs
Medicinal use
Marijuana is legal in Alaska for medicinal use.
Alaskans who have one of the qualifying health conditions and are over 18 may apply for a card. It allows you to use marijuana for medicinal purposes. Minors under 18 require a parent or guardian to request on their behalf. All applications need a doctor’s recommendation.
The following conditions qualify for a medical marijuana card in Alaska:
- Glaucoma
- Cancer
- Muscle spasms
- AIDS/HIV
- Seizures
- Multiple sclerosis
- Cachexia
- Nausea
- Chronic pain
The Alaska Medical Marijuana Registry provides cards to patients with qualifying medical conditions. Although Alaska legalized weed for medicinal users, you may only use the card in the state.
Medicinal users can possess one ounce on them and up to four ounces on their private property. They’re also exempt from the 3–5% sales tax that applies to recreational users.
Cultivation
Recreational and medicinal users may grow up to six cannabis plants. The law allows no more than 12 per household with more than one user. This rule applies regardless of the total number of inhabitants.
The law allows only three of the six plants to be mature. People growing 12 plants may only have six mature ones. You may grow CBD seeds or seeds high in tetrahydrocannabinol.
Restrictions and limits
Cannabis is legal in Alaska for recreational and medicinal use. There are restrictions and limitations to what you can do. Let’s unpack them.
How many grams of weed can I possess in Alaska?
You can possess up to one ounce (28 grams) on you. Medicinal users may also have up to four oz. (113 g) in their residence. It’s illegal to have any marijuana concentrates like hashish. You may have edibles with up to 0.35 oz. (10 mg) of THC per serving.
Can I grow cannabis in Alaska?
Yes, you can grow cannabis in Alaska. Recreational and medicinal users may cultivate six plants. Only three of them can be mature at a time. Each household can have up to 12 plants (six mature), regardless of how many people live there.
Is recreational marijuana legal in Alaska?
In Alaska, weed is legal for recreational purposes, but you can’t light it up anywhere. The Smokefree Alaska Law strictly forbids public consumption. You may only enjoy a joint in your private residence.
Where can I buy cannabis seeds legally in Alaska?
While you may buy cannabis seeds from Alaskan retailers, there are limited options. In-store pricing is typically higher, and the quality isn’t always consistent.
We have a range of high-quality cannabis seeds at Seed Supreme. Enjoy everything from classic dank strains to one-of-a-kind top-shelf beauties. You’ll love our speedy, discreet shipping and exciting promos.
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Key takeaways
Alaska legalized weed when it passed Ballot Measure 2. Recreational and medicinal users may lawfully enjoy the herb in the 49th State. It’s legal for possession, consumption, and cultivation.
Medicinal and recreational users can have up to one ounce in their possession. Medical residents may have up to four ounces in their home. Both groups can grow up to six plants. The law allows no more than 12 plants per household, regardless of the number of residents.
You may purchase cannabis seeds from local retailers, but buying from Seed Supreme is better. We have an extensive range of top-shelf cannabis seeds that deliver high-value buds. Why not shop our exciting selection of cannabis seeds in Alaska?
Frequently asked questions
Let’s look at questions regarding consumption, travel, and weed legality in Alaska.
Can I consume cannabis on public lands, cruise ships, and hotel lobbies in Alaska?
Although pot is legal in Alaska in 2023, you can’t consume it on public lands, cruise ships, and hotel lobbies. The Smokefree Alaska Law strictly prohibits public consumption. It applies this law to protect people from secondhand smoke.
Can I drive under the influence of marijuana in Alaska?
No, you can’t drive under the influence of marijuana in Alaska. It’s a serious offense treated the same as a DUI. First-time offenders face no less than 72 consecutive hours in jail and fines of around $1,500.
Is it legal to travel with marijuana by plane in Alaska and take weed out of the state?
No, it’s illegal to travel with marijuana by plane in Alaska and take it out of the state. The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) falls under federal jurisdiction. Each state has different laws, so only use marijuana in legal areas to avoid fines or arrest.
Can I smoke weed while in the park with my friends in Alaska?
No, you can’t smoke weed in the park with your friends in Alaska. As exciting as it may seem, weed laws in Alaska make it clear that public consumption is illegal. You could face penalties, like a fine of up to $100.
