Marijuana Laws
As recorded December 15, 2025 · not verified as current law. Arizona law
Cannabis laws in Phoenix follow Arizona’s state law. This city follows the jurisdiction’s cannabis law framework; separate city laws are typically limited.
Recreational cannabis is legal for adults 21 and older. Medical cannabis is also available. Possession and purchase within state limits is permitted, but regulations must be followed.
Quick facts
- Recreational: Legal for adults 21+
- Medical: Available
- Possession: Up to 1 ounce legal for adults
- Buying/Selling: Licensed retail only
- Tourists: May purchase with valid ID if 21+
Practical guidance
Avoid cross-border transport of cannabis products.
Law Enforcement
Public smoking was considered a sure way to get arrested and spend time in jail. Arizona has since introduced regulated adult use, as covered in Marijuana Laws.
Where to Buy Marijuana
Phoenix mostly ran on private connections. Around 15th Avenue and Washington, people sleeping rough were said to sell poor-quality herb for a few dollars, but there was little of a dependable street scene.
Back in 1990, a newcomer with long hair and a tie-dye shirt went to a large mall and started conversations by asking for a light. A few people turned him down before somebody finally made an introduction. The connection he relied on later had been selling in Phoenix for 20 years. Arrowhead and Metro Mall also came up as places to meet people. Trails, Headquarters, Hippy Gypsie in Tempe and DJ’s were head shops for pipes, bongs and other accessories.
Marijuana Prices
- Indoor chronic: US$100 per ¼ oz, US$180 per ½ oz or US$280–320 per oz
- Commercial weed: US$20 for 7 g, US$30 per ½ oz or US$60 per oz. Often brown and seedy, though the winter ‘Christmas buds’ were nicer.
Types of Marijuana
Living close to the Mexican border sounded like it ought to mean great bud. In practice, the better flower was said to go east, where it fetched at least twice the price. Decent mids with red hairs and a few seeds could smoke smoothly and give a decent high. Late summer brought a drought, when what was left was usually poor. Mostly regs or better regs, with true dank hard to come by.