Anchorage hosts one of the largest retail cannabis markets in Alaska. Dispensaries are licensed by the state Marijuana Control Board and under AMC 10.80, with 500-ft separation from schools and churches.
Alaska Statute 17.38 and 3 AAC 306 establish the state licensing framework, and Anchorage adopted local regulations in AMC 10.80 and zoning amendments under AMC 21.05. Retail cannabis stores are allowed in B-3 (General Business) and I-1/I-2 (Industrial) districts and conditionally in B-1A, B-1B, and B-2. Cultivation facilities, testing labs, and product manufacturers require industrial zoning. State separation rules prohibit location within 500 feet of a school, recreation or youth center, building used for religious services, or correctional facility (3 AAC 306.010). Anchorage originally required 1,000 feet from schools but has aligned with the state standard. Local licensing requires a public hearing before the Anchorage Assembly sitting as the local regulatory authority, and neighbors within 500 feet receive mailed notice. Anchorage collects a 5 percent local sales tax equivalent cannabis tax plus the state excise tax (50 dollars per ounce flower).
Contact your local code enforcement office for specific penalty information.
Anchorage, AK
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See how Anchorage's dispensary zoning rules stack up against other locations.
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