The City of Sitka is considering an update to its regulations to allow on-site consumption of cannabis at local retail stores. Although on-site consumption has been legal under Alaska state law for several years, Sitka has not previously adopted this policy. Local cannabis retailers argue that providing designated spaces for consumption is essential, especially for cruise ship passengers who currently lack legal places to use cannabis products after purchase.
In 2019, Alaska’s Alcohol and Marijuana Control Office (AMCO) revised its guidelines, permitting customers to consume cannabis in specific areas within retail stores. However, cannabis retailers in Sitka have been unable to apply for the necessary endorsements from AMCO because the local code has not aligned with state regulations.
Recently, owners of a Sitka cannabis shop requested a zoning change to facilitate on-site consumption, which the city’s planning commission approved in April. Planning and Community Development Director Amy Ainslie indicated that there is significant demand for such spaces from tourists who often resort to public areas for consumption, leading to violations of local laws. Ainslie noted, “This helps to provide a place, when someone doesn’t have a private residence, to go to use these products, and to prevent public consumption in parks, streets, sidewalks, or beaches.”
Allowing on-site consumption could create additional economic opportunities for cannabis retailers and generate increased tax revenue for Sitka. However, city officials acknowledge potential risks, such as driving under the influence of cannabis. Ainslie pointed out that AMCO has set daily serving limits to mitigate these risks. Moreover, permits for on-site consumption would be conditional, requiring case-by-case evaluations to ensure compliance with safety standards.
Assembly member Kevin Mosher expressed support for the ordinance, highlighting that the proposed regulations for cannabis consumption sites would be more stringent than those for alcohol-serving establishments. He stated, “I understand there is risk, but this is actually more regulated than other establishments that serve alcohol.”
During the assembly meeting, no public comments were made regarding the ordinance, and assembly member Thor Christianson pointed out that logistical questions raised at the planning commission meeting did not result in opposition. Christianson remarked, “It was remarkable. Most people saw it as something that makes sense.”
The ordinance passed its first reading with a vote of 6-1, with Deputy Mayor Tim Pike opposing it. If finalized, this change would mark a significant shift in Sitka’s cannabis policy, aligning it with state regulations and addressing the needs of both residents and visitors.
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