First Alaska retail pot shops get OK to allow on-site use

JUNEAU, Alaska (AP) — The first marijuana shops in Alaska where customers can partake on-site have gotten approval, putting them on the leading edge nationally. Visions for the spaces range from a living room feel to a brewery-style tasting room with a TV to watch football games.

Zoning and ventilation requirements and restrictions on smoking can limit the growth of so-called cannabis lounges or cafes in places that permit them, such as some cities in California, said Morgan Fox, a spokesman for the National Cannabis Industry Association.

“I don’t see it being something that starts proliferating heavily. But it’s definitely something that should exist, and there should be options for social consumption, particularly because public consumption is still illegal,” he said Friday.

A major consideration when regulators began considering on-site use in Alaska several years ago was providing a place for tourists to partake. On any given summer day, it's not uncommon for multiple large cruise ships to stop in southeast Alaska cities such as Juneau and Ketchikan, with tourists spilling out onto downtown sidewalks and buses shuttling them to whatever sight-seeing or adventure activities they've booked.

Ayme Zantua, a co-owner of Cannabis Corner outside of Ketchikan, one of the two retail shops approved Thursday by regulators to offer on-site use, said some tour companies have expressed interest in bringing people there, and she said they're open to it.

The business, which she said has largely served local residents, is about 10 miles (16 kilometers) north of the cruise ship docks. There's talk of another dock being built, which would be closer, she said.

Cannabis Corner aims to open the consumption area sometime next month. She said the vibe will be comfy and cozy, with couches, a fireplace and bar table and stools...