Recreational and medicinal marijuana is legal in Alaska. This includes the flowers, leaves, and stems of the plant, as well as all related products, including oils, edibles, topicals, and tinctures. However, exceeding certain limits results in criminal law penalties. Whether you are new to the state or a longtime resident interested in using marijuana, here’s what you need to know to stay out of trouble.

Alaska Marijuana Laws: A Quick Guide

What’s Legal

It’s legal to use marijuana for recreational and medicinal purposes as long as you follow certain guidelines. You can legally carry 1 ounce of the plant for personal use if you are at least 21 years old. At home, you can possess up to 4 ounces and grow up to 6 plants for personal use.

Purchasing marijuana in Alaska requires a valid, government-issued identification card, such as a driver’s license, to prove you’re 21 or older. You can purchase 1 ounce of product per day as long as you stay below the residential limits.

What’s Illegal

Marijuana possession becomes illegal when you exceed the allowed limits.

If you have more than 4 ounces of product, for example, you may face a $50,000 felony fine and five years in prison. Intending to sell less than 1 ounce of product is a misdemeanor that may result in one year in prison and a $10,000 fine. Selling more than that is a felony, resulting in a potential five-year prison sentence and a $50,000 fine. Growing 25 or more plants on your property is also a felony, and includes a $1,000 fine and up to five years in prison.

Other illegal marijuana-related activities include operating any vehicle under the influence of the drug, which results in a DWI if you get pulled over and appear intoxicated. You also cannot use the product on commercial, state, or federal land, which can come with a $100 fine. It’s illegal to sell marijuana to kids under the age of 19 if you’re at least three years older. Punishment can include up to 10 years in prison and up to $100,000 in fines. 

If you need legal counsel and representation regarding drug charges, contact Darryl L. Jones, Attorney at Law to discuss your case. Based in Palmer, AK, this criminal law attorney and his team have served Anchorage and the Matanuska-Susitna Valley for over 30 years. They defend against DWI, misdemeanors, and state and federal felonies. Call (907) 746-9851 to schedule a consultation, or learn more about their criminal law practice online.