Table of Contents
Legalizing weed in Arizona has been a top priority for lawmakers in the Grand Canyon State. The good news is it’s been legal for Arizonans since 2020. Residents may consume weed for recreational and medicinal purposes.
Just because it’s legal doesn’t mean you can light up at Monument Valley or in public spaces. It’s crucial to understand what the cannabis legislation entails. Read on as we explore the laws that govern cannabis use in Arizona.
History of cannabis legalization in Arizona
Arizona has a rich history with cannabis, specifically for medical use.
The legislation timeline began in 1996, when 65% of voters supported Proposition 200. It allowed physicians to prescribe cannabis with medicinal properties. It was only valid for debilitating or terminal illnesses.
Proposition 203 failed the first time it appeared in November 2002, with only 42.7% of the vote. It would’ve decriminalized recreational marijuana in Arizona.
It also aimed to organize distribution centers for medical users. This initiative would’ve protected non-violent drug offenders from imprisonment.
The state finally passed Proposition 203 (The Arizona Medical Marijuana Act) in 2010 with a 50.1% vote. It allowed patients with a doctor’s recommendation to possess no more than 2.5 ounces of marijuana.
Proposition 205 (The Arizona Marijuana Legalization Initiative) attempted to legalize recreational use in 2016. It failed with only a 48.7% overall vote.
Finally, the state approved Proposition 207 in November 2020, legalizing weed in Arizona. This initiative passed with a 60% vote to allow recreational use and cultivation. The law went into effect on November 30, 2020.
What are the marijuana laws in Arizona?
Proposition 207 is the primary legislation in Arizona. It governs the possession, use, and sale of cannabis. Let’s unpack what’s allowed under each aspect.
Possession
Arizonans over 21 may possess weed for recreational use. Arizona’s weed products can be in the form of buds, concentrates, edibles, and dabs. You may also use or purchase paraphernalia, including bongs and pipes.
Recreational marijuana users can’t have more than 1 ounce of bud. Of the total, you may also have 0.04 ounces (5 grams) of concentrate and up to 10 mg of THC per edible.
The law considers possessing more than 1 ounce and up to 2.5 ounces a petty offense. The state punishes it with a maximum fine of $300.
Any amount of cannabis between 2.5 and 32 ounces is a felony. The punishment is a sentence of 6–18 months. The state may also charge offenders with a maximum fine of $150,000.
The law treats possession of 32–64 ounces of weed as a felony. The typical punishment is a sentence of 9 months to 2 years. There’s also a maximum fine of $150,000.
Any amount over 64 ounces is also a felony. The minimum sentence is 1.5 years, with a maximum of 3 years. Offenders also face a maximum fine of $150,000.
Medicinal use
Registered users may possess up to 2.5 ounces of medicinal cannabis. They require a written certification from a physician and an identification card.
To qualify for the program, a practitioner must diagnose you. Currently, the state only accepts the following conditions:
- Seizures (including epilepsy)
- Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS)
- Cancer
- Severe or persistent muscle spasms
- Severe nausea
- Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV)
- Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
- Crohn’s Disease
- Severe and chronic pain
- Cachexia wasting syndrome
- Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome (AIDS)
- Hepatitis C
- Glaucoma
- Alzheimer’s disease
Cultivation
People over 21 may grow cannabis on private property. They may also share buds with friends and family as long as there’s no charge involved. CBD and THC seeds are both legal for cultivation.
Adults can grow up to six cannabis plants for recreational purposes. Cultivation must occur in a private residence. Even with over two adults, the law permits no more than 12 plants per household.
The law treats cultivating over six plants or over 32 ounces as a felony. Offenders receive a maximum fine of $150,000. They also face prison time from nine months to seven years, depending on the amount.
Consumption
Weed is legal in Arizona for recreational and medicinal consumption. The law prohibits public use. The state may charge anyone caught using weed in a general area with a petty offense.
The law allows employers to enforce a zero-tolerance policy. Companies may prohibit smoking weed in the workplace.
Consuming cannabis in your car in a public place is illegal, even if you have no intention of driving. Operating a vehicle while under the influence of cannabis is a serious offense. The law considers it a DUI, and you’ll face punishment.
Restrictions and limits
Although pot is legal in Arizona, there are still restrictions. The penalties for exceeding the limits can be serious, so it’s best to play it safe.
How many grams of weed can I possess in Arizona?
You can possess up to one ounce of weed in Arizona. Registered medicinal users may carry up to 2.5 ounces.
State laws clarify you can’t have cannabis products haphazardly stored in your car. Don’t keep items with a broken seal or loose cannabis that’s not in a container in your vehicle. It’s best to keep your products at home in a locked cupboard.
Can I grow cannabis in Arizona?
Growing weed is legal in AZ. Recreational users over 21 can grow up to 6 plants and no more than 12 per household. Choose an enclosed space that’s not accessible to minors. Secure the area with locks or keep it in out-of-reach spaces to prevent accidents.
Registered medicinal users or caregivers can cultivate up to 12 plants per residence. The law only allows them to grow if they live 25 miles or further from the nearest dispensary. You can also grow seeds with high CBD content.
Is recreational marijuana legal in Arizona?
Recreational weed is legal in Arizona. Thanks to Proposition 207, which the state passed in 2020, adults over 21 can enjoy weed freely. You may only consume it in your private residence.
Where can I buy cannabis seeds legally in Arizona?
Purchasing cannabis online is the best option. It’s especially convenient if you don’t live near a dispensary.
We offer a wide range of strains at Seed Supreme, including rare options you won’t find at a local retailer. Our cannabis seeds come from stable genetics and provide consistently generous harvests.
Pay with convenient options, including Bitcoin. Our USA shipping is discreet and speedy, so you can start growing in a matter of days.
Key takeaways
Marijuana is legal in Arizona for recreational use. Medicinal marijuana has been legal since 2010. Recreational users can possess up to 1 ounce, while medical cannabis patients may have up to 2.5 ounces.
Cannabis cultivation is legal in Arizona. Recreational users may grow up to 6 plants each and no more than 12 per household. Registered medicinal users can have up to 12 plants. The nearest dispensary must be 25 miles or further from their residence.
Buying cannabis seeds in Arizona is legal. It’s best to purchase online for a wider variety and convenient payment options. Shop our selection of top-shelf cannabis seeds at Seed Supreme.
Frequently asked questions
Below are some common questions and answers on the key points of Arizona’s cannabis laws.
Can I drive high in Arizona?
No, you can’t drive high in Arizona. Operating a vehicle under the influence of marijuana is illegal. The law treats it as a DUI; you could lose your license and pay a hefty fine.
Are there any penalties for violating Arizona’s cannabis laws?
Yes, violating Arizona’s cannabis laws can result in severe penalties. Typically, it includes fines and prison time. The punishment depends on the amount of cannabis you’re carrying or growing.
What is the process for obtaining a medical marijuana card in Arizona?
The process for obtaining a medical marijuana card in Arizona starts with registering. Apply as a patient or caregiver with the Arizona Department of Health Services. There’s usually a waiting period of about ten days before the ADHS issues a card.
