Arizona
In 2020, Arizona passed legislation that allows for the sale of recreational cannabis. The legislation also established a state-run adult-use cannabis market.
The legislation also allows for the expungement of certain cannabis-related convictions.
Current Legislation
Possession
Adults 21 and older are allowed to possess up to 1 ounce of marijuana, or 5 grams of concentrated marijuana, in public.
Adults 21 and older are allowed to possess up to 6 plants in their primary residence, with no more than 3 mature plants and 3 immature plants.
Adults 21 and older are allowed to gift up to 1 ounce of marijuana to another adult 21 and older.
Growing
Adults 21 and older are allowed to grow up to 6 plants in their primary residence, with no more than 3 mature plants and 3 immature plants.
Plants must be grown in a secure area that is not visible from the public.
Plants must be tagged with the grower's name and address.
Selling
The sale of recreational cannabis is legal in Arizona. Retail sales began on January 22, 2020.
Only licensed businesses can sell recreational cannabis.
Recreational cannabis can be sold in retail stores, dispensaries, and some grocery stores.
Recreational cannabis cannot be sold to minors.
Penalties
The penalties for violating cannabis laws in Arizona are as follows:
For possession of up to 2.5 ounces, the maximum penalty is a fine of $250 and up to 30 days in jail.
For possession of more than 2.5 ounces but less than 4.5 ounces, the maximum penalty is a fine of $500 and up to 6 months in jail.
For possession of more than 4.5 ounces, the maximum penalty is a fine of $1,000 and up to 1 year in jail.
To apply for an adult-use license in Arizona, you must submit an application to the Arizona Department of Health Services (ADHS).
The application process includes submitting certain documentation, such as your personal information, business plan, financial statements, and criminal background check.
The ADHS will review your application and make a decision on whether to approve or deny your application. The review process can take several months.
If your application is approved, you will be issued an adult-use license. Your license will specify the type of cannabis business you are allowed to operate and the location of your business.
Here are some additional tips for applying for an adult-use license in Arizona:
Start the application process early. The ADHS has a limited number of licenses available, so it is important to submit your application early.
Make sure you understand the eligibility requirements. The ADHS will not approve your application if you do not meet the eligibility requirements.
Gather all of the required documentation. The ADHS will not approve your application if you do not submit all of the required documentation.
Pay the application fee. The ADHS will not review your application if you do not pay the application fee.
Be patient. The review process can take several months.
Get help from a cannabis business consultant like Dispensary Accelerator. A cannabis business consultant can help you understand the application process and the requirements. They can also help you prepare your application and answer any questions you may have.
We have a successful track record of providing consulting services ranging from simple business plans, to full-scale dispensary build-outs and training programs.
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