Recreational marijuana is legal in Arizona for adults over the age of 21, thanks to Proposition 207, passed by voters in November 2020. Also known as the Smart and Safe Arizona Act, the law has since ushered in regulated retail sales, home cultivation rights, and other liberties—but not without strict boundaries.
Here’s what you need to know about the state’s current cannabis laws in 2025, including where you can buy marijuana, how much you can possess, what’s still illegal, and how medical use is handled.
Recreational Marijuana Is Legal
As of January 2021, adults aged 21 and over can legally possess, use, and purchase marijuana from licensed dispensaries in Arizona.
Legal rights include:
- Possession of up to 1 ounce (28 grams) of marijuana flower or 5 grams of concentrates.
- Growing up to 6 plants per person, with a household limit of 12 if more than one adult lives there.
- Transferring marijuana to another adult for free, as long as no money or promotional activity is involved.
Retail sales began swiftly after Proposition 207’s approval, making Arizona one of the fastest states to implement voter-approved recreational marijuana laws. Consumers can find dispensaries listed on the Arizona Department of Health Services (ADHS) website.
Medical Marijuana Is Still Active
Medical marijuana was legalized in Arizona a decade earlier with Proposition 203 in 2010. Qualified patients can:
- Possess up to 2.5 ounces every 14 days.
- Access a wide range of cannabis-based treatments through state-licensed dispensaries.
Those with qualifying medical conditions can apply for a card through the Arizona Medical Marijuana Program, administered by the ADHS.
What’s Still Illegal?
Even with legalization, Arizona law places several critical restrictions on marijuana use:
🔹 Public Consumption
Consuming cannabis in public spaces—like parks, sidewalks, or restaurants—is illegal and classified as a petty offense.
🔹 Age Restrictions
Only adults aged 21+ are permitted to possess or use marijuana. Minors face escalating consequences, starting from civil penalties to possible criminal charges for repeated violations.
🔹 Excessive Possession
- Possessing over 1 ounce but under 2.5 ounces is a petty offense.
- More than 2.5 ounces could result in felony charges, especially if there’s intent to distribute.
Driving Under the Influence
Arizona enforces a zero-tolerance DUI law for marijuana impairment, not mere presence in the bloodstream. While the presence of THC alone isn’t sufficient for a DUI conviction, evidence of actual impairment—such as erratic driving or failed sobriety tests—can result in severe penalties.
This was clarified further under a revised DUI enforcement law in 2024, as reported by The Sun.
Home Delivery Is Now Available
One of the most significant developments in 2024 was the legalization of home delivery for recreational marijuana. Licensed dispensaries and authorized delivery services are now allowed to deliver cannabis directly to customers statewide.
This has expanded access, especially in rural communities, as reported by AP News.
Federal Law Still Applies
Despite state-level legalization, marijuana is still classified as a Schedule I drug under federal law. That means:
- Transporting marijuana across state lines is illegal.
- Marijuana use can still impact federal benefits (e.g., housing or student aid).
- Employers may enforce zero-tolerance drug policies even if usage is legal under Arizona law.
Conclusion
Marijuana is legal in Arizona for both recreational and medical use, but that doesn’t mean it’s a free-for-all. Users must understand the laws around possession, public use, DUI, and age restrictions. As regulations continue to evolve—particularly around delivery and law enforcement—the safest bet is staying informed.
For the latest legal updates, visit the Arizona Marijuana Program and consult local legal resources.
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