Social Equity Licensing: Phoenix vs Tempe
How do social equity licensing rules compare between Phoenix, AZ and Tempe, AZ?
Phoenix and Tempe have similar restriction levels.
Phoenix, AZ
Maricopa County
Arizona Proposition 207 (2020) legalized adult recreational cannabis and created a social equity ownership program. Phoenix permits licensed dispensaries to operate under the state's Marijuana Establishment licensing framework administered by ADHS.
View full Phoenix rules →Tempe, AZ
Maricopa County
Arizona Proposition 207 created a state social equity ownership program with twenty-six licenses statewide for applicants from communities harmed by marijuana enforcement. Several Maricopa County recipients now operate, while county zoning still controls dispensary siting in unincorporated areas.
View full Tempe rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Phoenix | Tempe |
|---|---|---|
| State law | Arizona Proposition 207 (2020) | - |
| Equity licenses | 26 social equity licenses | - |
| Adult age | 21 years and older | - |
| Regulator | Arizona Department of Health Services | - |
| Sales started | January 22, 2021 | - |
| State licenses issued | - | 26 statewide |
| Lottery date | - | April 8, 2022 |
| Issuing agency | - | Arizona DHS |
| County zoning | - | Title XIII use permit |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Phoenix FAQ
Who can apply for a social equity license?
Applicants meeting ADHS criteria including income limits and prior cannabis-related convictions or residency in disproportionately impacted communities. ADHS issued 26 such licenses through a state lottery.
Does Phoenix issue cannabis licenses directly?
No. The state issues licenses through ADHS. Phoenix regulates location, zoning compliance, and operational conditions for dispensaries within city limits.
Tempe FAQ
Does Maricopa County run its own social equity program?
No. Licensing is statewide through ADHS under Proposition 207 and ARS title 36 chapter 28.2. The county only handles zoning, building, and health permits for the chosen unincorporated site.
Can a social equity license relocate within Maricopa County?
Yes, with ADHS approval and a new use permit. The destination must comply with the 1320-foot school buffer in ARS 36-2806 and Title XIII commercial zoning standards.
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