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What you will learn in this post:
Alaska is a state of extremes. The 49th state is the largest in the US by a wide margin. It’s also the northernmost state. Alaska experiences the longest day and shortest night of any place in the United States too. It shouldn’t be surprising that the only state with land in the Arctic Circle holds multiple records for the coldest temperatures recorded in any state as well. It may be surprising, however, that Alaska is home to both a rainforest and a desert, though they’re probably different from what you typically think of.
Alaska is wild. America’s last frontier remains largely untamed and remains home to massive national parks and forests. Alaska is home to Denali National Park, Glacier Bay, and the Alaska Rainforest Sanctuary. If you’re looking for an authentic outdoor adventure, Alaska has more than enough to offer. The state embraces its wildlife and it’s not hard to find tours that let you encounter some of the nation’s largest and most majestic creatures. Alaska’s hiking, skiing, and outdoor activities are among the best in the world.
For fans of the water, Alaska boasts the longest coastline in the US. Whether you’re looking for deep sea fishing, whale and dolphin watching, or even a tour of Alaska’s breathtaking glaciers, you can find a nautical adventure to bring you closer to nature.
Is Weed Legal in Alaska ?
YES. Adults aged 21 and over can legally take marijuana for medicinal or recreational use in the state of Alaska.
Weed Legalization in Alaska
Alaska’s past with cannabis law has been a rollercoaster ride. Alaska was originally the second state to decriminalize possession of small amounts of cannabis back in 1975. In the same year, Alaska’s courts ruled that possession of small amounts of cannabis was protected by the state’s constitution. However, in 1990, the state recriminalized cannabis possession. A pattern that repeated a few times over the next few decades.
In the interim, Alaska voters approved Measure 8 in 1998, making the state one of the first to legalize medical marijuana. Even still, that didn’t stop recreational possession from being decriminalized and recriminalized, both following the 1998 vote.
Finally, in 2014, the people of Alaska voted to approve Measure 2 to fully legalize recreational adult-use cannabis. The law took effect in 2015, and the state’s recreational market opened late in 2016.
As of 2022, the consumption of cannabis is legal for medicinal and recreational use in the state of Alaska.
Cannabis Tax in Alaska
Adults aged 21 and above can purchase cannabis from state-licensed dispensaries.
Alaska does not charge an excise or sales tax on either recreational or medical marijuana. Instead, the state taxes wholesale sales of cannabis at a rate of $50 per ounce of dried flower. Irregular and immature flower is taxed at a rate of $25 per ounce. Trim is taxed at $15 per ounce. Clones receive a flat tax of $1 per clone.
Some municipalities impose their own taxes on cannabis sales. The tax rate will vary by city.
Is Cannabis Delivery Available in Alaska?
NO, legal marijuana delivery is not available for either medicinal or recreational purposes in the state of Alaska. There are many businesses offering cannabis delivery services, but these are not approved by the state and are not considered legal operations.
Where Can You Legally Use Weed in Alaska?
Cannabis can be legally used in the following areas in Alaska:
🗹 Private properties such as residences
🗹 Businesses with a commercial cannabis consumption license
Cannabis CANNOT be consumed in:
X Public spaces
X Businesses that lack a license for commercial cannabis consumption
X Motorized vehicles in motion, for both driver and passengers
X Federal land, like national parks
What are the Restrictions on Cannabis Possession in Alaska?
Adults aged 21 and above may purchase and possess up to:
- Cannabis: 1 ounces / 28.35 grams
- Cannabis concentrates: 1/4 ounces / 7 grams
- No more than 5,600 mg THC in combined products
For storage at home:
- Cannabis: 4 ounces / 113.4 grams
For transfer to another adult:
- Dried cannabis: 1 ounces / 28.35 grams
- Cannabis concentrates: 1/4 ounces / 7 grams
- Up to six plants, no more than 3 of which can be mature
For the state’s home cultivation program:
- Maximum # of plants: 6
- Maximum # of mature plants: 3
For medicinal use:
- Dried cannabis: 1 ounces / 28.35 grams
- Cannabis concentrates: 1/4 ounces / 7 grams
During vehicular transportation:
- Cannabis may either be in a sealed container, or
- Stored in the trunk of the vehicle
Frequently Asked Questions About Marijuana in Alaska
What are the qualifying conditions for medical marijuana in Alaska?
In Alaska, a doctor can recommend medical marijuana for any of the following conditions:
- Cancer
- Severe or chronic pain
- HIV
- Glaucoma
- MS
- Wasting syndrome or cachexia
- Seizures
- Muscle spasms
- Severe nausea
How does Alaska protect the privacy of my medical marijuana records?
While Alaska does keep a medical marijuana registry, patient records are confidential. Law enforcement can only use the database to verify your status as a patient.
How long does my Alaska medical marijuana ID last?
Most medical marijuana IDs last for one year in Alaska, unless the recommending doctor notes otherwise.
Does health insurance cover medical marijuana in Alaska?
No. Most health insurance companies will not cover medical marijuana because it remains illegal on the federal level.
How much does my Alaska medical marijuana registration cost?
Alaska charges a $25 registration fee for medical marijuana IDs. Renewal of your ID costs $20.
Can a caregiver help me purchase or cultivate medical marijuana in Alaska?
Yes. They must be a permanent resident of Alaska over the age of 21, and they cannot have been convicted of a drug related felony.
Can a minor be a medical marijuana patient in Alaska?
Yes. They must have a parent or guardian over the age of 21 assigned as a registered caregiver.
The information in this article and any included images or charts are for educational purposes only. This information is neither a substitute for, nor does it replace, professional legal advice or medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If you have any concerns or questions about laws, regulations, or your health, you should always consult with an attorney, physician or other licensed professional.
