Alaska Marijuana License

Alaska voters legalized adult-use cannabis in 2014 (Ballot Measure 2), and stores opened in 2016. The Marijuana Control Board, staffed by the Alcohol and Marijuana Control Office (AMCO), licenses businesses.

There's no statewide cap on licenses, and applications are accepted on a rolling basis. Each application goes to the local government for review, and some boroughs and cities prohibit cannabis businesses. Retail stores can add an onsite consumption endorsement.

• Retail marijuana store, with optional onsite consumption endorsement
• Standard cultivation and limited cultivation (500 sq ft or less)
• Product manufacturing and concentrate manufacturing
• Testing facility

• Alaska residency for licensees
• Local government review and approval
• Location buffers from schools, youth centers and similar sites
• Marijuana handler permits for employees

• Application fee: $1,000 (renewal $600)
• Annual license fees: Retail store, standard cultivation and product manufacturing $5,000; limited cultivation, concentrate manufacturing and testing $1,000
• Onsite consumption endorsement: $1,000 application plus $2,000 a year

1. Confirm your city or borough allows the license type.
2. Post public notice and submit your application to AMCO with the $1,000 fee.
3. Local government reviews the application.
4. The Marijuana Control Board votes on approval.
5. Pass inspection, pay the license fee and open.

• Adults 21+ may possess up to 1 ounce and grow up to 6 plants (3 mature)
• Local governments can prohibit businesses
• Excise tax is charged per ounce at the cultivation level

• Alaska resident with a debilitating condition, such as cancer, glaucoma, chronic pain, seizures and others
• Physician statement

1. Get a physician statement.
2. Apply to the state medical marijuana registry.
3. Receive your registry card.