Arizona Marijuana License
Arizona allows adult-use and medical cannabis. The Department of Health Services issues a capped number of marijuana establishment licenses that cover cultivation, manufacturing and retail, plus social equity licenses and testing lab licenses.
Overview
Arizona legalized medical marijuana in 2010 and adult-use cannabis in 2020 (Proposition 207). The Department of Health Services (ADHS) licenses and regulates both programs.
A single marijuana establishment license can cover one retail location, one off-site cultivation site and one off-site manufacturing site. The number of licenses is capped by statute (generally tied to the number of pharmacies in the state), so new licenses become available only occasionally, including through the Social Equity Ownership Program.
License Types
- Marijuana Establishment: retail, cultivation and manufacturing under one license
- Social Equity Ownership Program establishment licenses, awarded by lottery
- Marijuana Testing Facility
- Facility agent licenses for employees
Key Requirements
- Arizona business entity with background checks for principal officers and board members
- Compliant site meeting local zoning (cities and counties may ban or limit establishments)
- Security, inventory control and operating procedures
- Approval to operate after ADHS inspection
Fees
- Establishment license application: $25,000
- Establishment license renewal: $5,000
- Approval to operate: $2,500; adding or changing a site: $2,500
- Testing facility: $25,000 initial; $5,000 renewal
- Facility agent license: $300 ($150 with a current fingerprint clearance card)
Application Process
- Watch ADHS for a licensing window or lottery.
- Prepare the application with ownership, background and site information.
- Submit with the $25,000 application fee.
- If selected, secure local approval and complete buildout.
- Pass inspection and receive approval to operate.
Regulations
- Adults 21+ may possess up to 1 ounce (5 grams of concentrate) and grow up to 6 plants (12 per household)
- Licenses are capped by statute
- Local governments may prohibit or restrict establishments
Medical Marijuana Card
Who qualifies
- Arizona resident with a qualifying condition, such as cancer, glaucoma, HIV/AIDS, chronic pain, PTSD, epilepsy and others on the state list
- Written certification from a qualifying physician
How to apply
- Get a written certification from a physician.
- Apply online with ADHS and pay the card fee.
- Use your card at any licensed dispensary while it's valid.
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MarijuanaLicense.com is an independent informational resource and is not affiliated with any state agency. This page is for general information only and is not legal advice. Fees, rules and application windows change; confirm with the official regulator before applying.
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