Alaska Marijuana Laws

Marijuana Laws in Alaska

Residents of Alaska who are 21 years and older can now legally possess up to one ounce of marijuana outside of their homes and have the right to privately consume it. Adults may also give up to an ounce of marijuana and up to six plants to another adult as long as no compensation is involved. Growing up to six plants in their home is allowed with not more than three being mature, flowering plants.

Consumption must stay private, however, and public use of cannabis products remains illegal. A nine-month rulemaking process has been put in effect to create regulations for commercial aspects of legalization which includes the Governor’s proposed Marijuana Control Board that will formulate guidelines for public health and public safety.

Anyone over the age of 21 is allowed to possess or consume marijuana including state residents and adults visiting from other states. It is still illegal to sell or give to minors under 21. Legal marijuana products include flowers (or “buds”) and concentrates such as oils, hashes, waxes, edibles, tinctures, and topicals. Home growing is legal so long as the yield of produced plants is kept at the location where it was grown.

When consuming marijuana, it is important to remember that driving while impaired in any way is illegal. Exercise caution and make sure you’re aware of local laws before consuming marijuana in any place that might be construed as public, such as hotel rooms or privately owned businesses open to the public.

Retail Marijuana Stores in Alaska

Marijuana retailers are legally permitted to dispense up to one ounce of usable marijuana, seven grams of marijuana concentrate for inhalation, and 5,600 milligrams of THC in a combination of marijuana and marijuana products to an individual purchaser per day. Although possession is not explicitly authorized by the code, the fact that customers are able to purchase these amounts indicates that it is permissible. This law outlines the limitations of marijuana purchase and consumption in an effort to ensure responsible use and safety for all members of society.

Possession Penalties

In Alaska, adults 21 and over may possess up to 1 ounce of marijuana and/or up to 6 plants (no more than 3 mature) for non-commercial use. Additionally, individuals can share or gift up to 1 ounce or 6 plants with other adults who are at least 21 years old without penalty. However, consuming cannabis in public is still a criminal offense that carries a fine of up to $100. Possession of between 1 and 4 ounces is classified as a Class A misdemeanor but if it occurs in the confines of a personal residence it falls under Alaskan constitutional right of privacy and carries no penalty.

If an individual possesses more than 4 ounces, they could face up to 5 years imprisonment and/or a fine of up to $50,000. Lastly, possession within 500 feet of school grounds, a recreation or youth center, or a school bus is also a class C felony punishable by up to 5 years in jail and/or a maximum fine of $50,000 unless it occurs only within the confines of a personal residence.

Intent to Distribute in Alaska

Possessing marijuana with the intent to distribute it is a serious offense in Alaska, and it can result in significant penalties. If an individual possesses less than one ounce of marijuana with the intent to distribute, they may be charged with a Class A misdemeanor which carries a maximum sentence of one-year imprisonment and/or a fine up to $10,000.

However, if an individual possesses an ounce or more of marijuana with the intent to distribute, they may be charged with a Class C felony which carries a maximum sentence of five years imprisonment and/or a fine up to $50,000.

Moreover, individuals who deliver marijuana for compensation, regardless of the amount involved, may also face criminal charges. If an individual delivers marijuana for compensation to a person under the age of 19, then they may be charged with a Class B felony which carries a maximum sentence of ten years imprisonment and/or a fine up to $100,000.

Ultimately, delivering or possessing cannabis with intent to distribute is a serious offense in Alaska, so individuals should understand the risks and take necessary precautions before engaging in such activities.

Growing

In Alaska, adults can possess up to one ounce of marijuana or grow up to six marijuana plants, not exceeding three mature plants, for non-commercial purposes in a place where they are not subject to public view. Cultivating fewer than 25 plants of marijuana in a private residence is protected by the right to privacy provided under the Alaskan constitution and anything above that is considered a Class C felony punishable by up to five years in prison and/or a fine no greater than $50,000. Selling marijuana plants to persons under the age of 19 who are three years or more younger than the seller is a felony with a maximum sentence of 10 years in prison and/or a fine of $100,000.

Driving High in Alaska

In Alaska, it is a crime to operate a motor vehicle while under the influence of alcohol, an intoxicating liquor, an inhalant, or any controlled substance, alone or in combination. If suspected of impaired driving due to alcohol, drivers have impliedly consented to provide a sample of breath, blood, or urine for testing by police. However, no penalties or sanctions can be applied if an individual refuses to submit to a chemical test for drugs. An exception applies, however, when a motorist is involved in an accident that results in serious physical injury; then, a blood sample may be taken to screen for cannabis impairment.

Those who are convicted of DUI in Alaska face increasing fines and jail time, from $1,500 for the first offense up to $10,000 and at least 360 days imprisonment for the fifth offense. Additionally, license suspensions and revocations depending on the number of offenses range from 90 days to lifetime revocation. Finally, all third offense convictions require mandatory ignition interlock devices for the duration of the probation period.

FAQS on Pot Laws in Alaska

Is recreational marijuana legal in Alaska?

Yes, recreational marijuana is legal in Alaska. Possession and use of marijuana for adults aged 21 and over is allowed in limited amounts within certain restrictions.

Do they have dispensaries in Alaska?

Yes, there are licensed dispensaries located throughout the state of Alaska. These dispensaries provide adults with access to a variety of cannabis products, including flowers, edibles, concentrates, and more.

Do you need a marijuana card in Alaska?

No, there is no requirement for a marijuana card in Alaska. However, you must be at least 21 years old to purchase and possess recreational marijuana in the state.

How much marijuana can you purchase in Alaska?

Adults aged 21 and over can purchase up to 1 ounce (28 grams) of usable marijuana flower per day from a licensed dispensary.

Can anyone buy from a dispensary in Alaska?

No, only individuals aged 21 or older with valid government-issued identification may purchase from an Alaska dispensary.

Can you smoke in public in Alaska?

No, smoking marijuana in public is not permitted in Alaska. Consumption of cannabis is only allowed in private residences or places where smoking is permitted.

Can you bring edibles on an Alaskan cruise?

Unfortunately, the consumption or possession of any cannabis products is prohibited on all Alaskan cruises.

Does Alaska test for marijuana?

Yes, employers in Alaska are allowed to conduct drug tests which may include testing for marijuana. Testing positive for cannabis can lead to disciplinary action or termination of employment.

Does Alaska accept out-of-state medical marijuana cards?

Unfortunately, Alaska does not recognize out-of-state medical marijuana cards. Only residents of Alaska with valid medical marijuana cards issued by the state are allowed to purchase medical marijuana from licensed dispensaries.