Is weed legal in Arizona? Heck yes! Both recreational and medical marijuana is legal in this sunny state. But, residents of Arizona will find more benefits with medical marijuana.
Benefits of a Medical Marijuana Card in Arizona.
Medical marijuana became legal in Arizona in 2010, and the legalization of recreational use began in 2020. Yet, there are still restrictions in place for new and old marijuana users in the state of Arizona.
If you are a first-time user, it is important to know the laws and regulations about cannabis use. Here is a brief overview of what you need to know about weed in Arizona:
The Arizona Medical Marijuana Laws Allow Patients to Possess More!
Save up to 16% on your Dispensary Purchases!
Did you know that an MMJ cardholder in Arizona pays only 5.6% tax on their purchase? Yes, it’s true! The 5.6% tax is a sales tax. MMJ card holders do not have to pay the 16% excise tax. However, the same is not true for recreational cannabis users.
Arizona’s Medical Marijuana Law Prevent Employers from Discrimination
Did you know that an employer cannot fire you for having a MMJ card in Arizona? Under Proposition 203, employers cannot discriminate against or terminate an employee with a Arizona MMJ card. As well, under the Americans with Disabilities Act, a hiring employer does not have the right to ask a job applicant if they do or do not have a medical marijuana card.
What Recreational Weed Legal in Arizona?
So you are interested in recreational marijuana use but are unsure of Arizona marijuana laws. Ever since marijuana legalization was passed in 2020 by Arizona voters, personal use is now available for recreational customers. Let’s look at what every Arizona resident needs to know before buying their first cannabis product.
Do I need an Arizona medical marijuana card to buy weed in Arizona?
Ever since Arizona decided to make marijuana legal, you do not need to be prescribed by a health service or be a medical marijuana patient to buy recreational weed in Arizona. All you need is a valid ID and to be over the age of 21.
What is the legal age for recreational marijuana in Arizona?
Like alcohol, the legal age for recreational cannabis use is 21. You must have a valid ID to buy cannabis from a dispensary. Many dispensaries will not let you into the building without seeing a valid ID first. So make sure you bring your driver’s license, passport, or other valid photo ID.
If you need medical cannabis or are a medical marijuana patient under the age of 21, you still consume marijuana with a doctor’s prescription under the Arizona medical marijuana act.
Cannabis is still illegal on a federal level, so is it safe to buy and use in Arizona?
Yes, it is legal to buy and consume cannabis in Arizona as long as you are following the state marijuana law. Yet, it is still illegal under federal law. There is always a risk when buying and using cannabis, such as traveling across the united states. If you buy weed in Arizona, drive it through New Mexico, and bring it to Texas where it is illegal. Arizona marijuana laws will no longer protect you.
Where can I buy recreational weed in Arizona?
There are many dispensaries around the state of Arizona. However, not all dispensaries sell recreational weed (some are strictly for medical cannabis and medical use). You will need to do a little research to make sure they do. A quick Google search or phone call should do the trick.
What is the limit on how much I can purchase?
Adults 21 and over can buy up to one ounce (28 grams) of marijuana flower and 5 grams of marijuana concentrate at a time. You can face legal penalties if you are caught with more than this. Anyone caught with more than 1 ounce will face a fine of $100. If you are caught in Arizona with more than 2.5 ounces in your possession, then you can face more serious charges.
Under Arizona law, if you are caught with less than 2.5 ounces, at worst, you will face a $100 fine. So, never carry more than 2.5 ounces on you at any time.
Can I consume weed in public?
No, you cannot consume weed in public. You can only consume cannabis on private property. So if you’re not smoking at home, you will need the property owner’s permission before lighting up.
Never smoke weed in public; you can face fines and criminal charges if caught.
What are the consequences of driving under the influence of weed?
Driving while impaired by any substance is illegal in Arizona. If caught driving while impaired by recreational or medical cannabis, you can face marijuana DUI charges. These charges come with stiff penalties, including jail time, so always drive sober.
This applies to driving boats and other motor vehicles as well. If you are under the influence of marijuana, it is best to pay for a ride or stay at home.
Can out-of-state visitors and Arizona residents buy recreational marijuana?
Yes, both out-of-state visitors and residents can buy recreational marijuana. All they need to be is 21 years of age and have a valid ID. However, it is illegal to transport cannabis across state borders. So if you are from a state that does not allow the use of recreational weed, you will need to consume it all before leaving the state.
Police can no longer perform searches if they smell weed
The newest law from prop 207 is police officers can no longer perform searches if they smell weed. This is a huge victory for those who have been victims of racial profiling.
If an officer smells weed or sees drug paraphernalia, they will not be able to search your vehicle or person without a warrant.
While this is a new law, it is essential to know your rights in case you are ever stopped by the police. If they do force you to a search without your permission or a warrant, it is always smart to contact a criminal defense lawyer right away and challenge the charges in an Arizona court.
How to buy recreational marijuana in Arizona
If you are 21 or over and have a valid ID, buying weed in Arizona is easy. Here is a step-by-step guide:
Step 1: Find a licensed dispensary that sells recreational weed
There are many dispensaries around Arizona, but not all of them sell recreational marijuana. You will need to research to find a dispensary that is licensed for recreational sales.
Step 2: Bring a valid ID
You will need to show a valid ID to enter the recreational dispensary and purchase cannabis. A driver’s license, passport, or other valid photo ID is typically accepted.
Step 3: Decide what you want to buy
The average adult can purchase up to one ounce (28 grams) of weed and 5 grams of concentrate to qualify for a legal sale, which is plenty to get you started. If you are unsure what the best option is for you, then ask one of the budtenders for their recommendation!
Step 4: Make sure you brought cash
Many dispensaries do not accept credit or debit cards. So be sure to bring enough cash to cover your sale.
Step 5: Enjoy your weed!
Once you’ve made your purchase, it is time to sit back, relax, and enjoy your weed. Remember, consuming cannabis is only legal on private property. So be sure you are home before you start to light up or take an edible.
So, Is Weed Legal in Arizona?!
Heck yes! But, now that we know the difference between the medical and recreational marijuana laws it’s clear to see which option is better than the other!
Now that you know all about the new Arizona marijuana laws and how to purchase recreational weed. It is time for you to try it out for yourself. Just remember to always be safe and consume responsibly. If you are ever unsure about anything, feel free to ask one of the knowledgeable staff members at your local dispensary. They would be more than happy to help you get the best experience possible.
Start Saving and Get an Arizona Medical Marijuana Card Instead!
Do you want to save money on your weed in AZ? Do you want access to potent cannabis products? Do you want to skip the queue at dispensaries?
If you’ve answered yes to all these questions, it’s time to get a state-licensed medical marijuana card in Arizona. Yes, weed is legal in Arizona, but if you’ve a qualifying medical condition, you will find a medical marijuana card a lot more beneficial! So, stop spending money on recreational weed and start saving.
