On October 17, a year and a half after the Federal Cannabis Act was introduced, recreational cannabis will be legal nation-wide. But just because it is legal does not mean there are no rules around it. Here's everything you need to know about legally buying and using weed in Ontario.
Minimum age
The minimum age to buy, use and grow recreational cannabis is 19, similar to alcohol and tobacco use.
Where to buy
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Consumers will be able to buy recreational online through the The Ontario Cannabis Store website. Orders will be made and delivered securely. Consumers will be required to verify their age to accept delivery and no packages will be left unattended at the door.
How much is legal
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Consumers will only be able to buy 30 grams of dried recreational cannabis at one time for personal use. This amounts to about one ounce or two tablespoons (1/8 of a cup) of ground up cannabis.
30 grams is also the maximum amount of dried cannabis you may possess in public at anytime.
You will be able to grow up to four plants per residence (not per person).
Where you can use
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Private residences, outdoor public spaces (sidewalks, parks), designated hotel rooms, residential vehicles and boats (must have permanent sleeping accommodations and are parked or anchored) and scientific research and testing facilities (if the cannabis use is for scientific research).
Cannabis may also be used in controlled areas if permitted and designated space is provided, such as long-term care homes, retirement homes, hospices, provincially-funded supportive housing, psychiatric facilities or veterans' facilities.
The Ontario government notes that restrictions on cannabis use may exist in municipal bylaws, lease agreements, and the policies of employers and property owners.
Where you cannot use
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Indoors (condo/apartment/university/college common areas, enclosed public spaces, workplaces).
Schools and places where children gather (at school or on school grounds, all public areas within 20 meters of school grounds), playgrounds and public areas within 20 meters of playgrounds, in child care centres or where care is provided (regardless if children are present or not).
Hospitals, hospices and care homes (unless designated space is provided).
Within 9 meters from the entrance or exit of, or on the grounds of hospitals, psychiatric facilities and long-term care homes.
Publicly owned spaces (sport fields, golf courses).
In a vehicle or boat that is being driven.
In restaurants or bars, or patios.
In reserved seating areas at outdoor sports or entertainment events.
In sheltered outdoor areas with a roof and more than two walls (bus shelter).
Use while driving
Cannabis use while driving or operating a motor vehicle is illegal.
Any impairement by any drug or substance, including cannabis, will result in serious penalties, including: an immediate licence suspension, financial penalties, possible vehicle impoundment, possible criminal record, possible jail time.
There will be zero tolerance for young, novice and commercial drivers: No cannabis will be allowed in your system if you are 21 or under or have a G1, G2, M1 or M2 licence.
Medicinal use
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The production and sale of medicinal cannabis is regulated exclusively by the federal government. The only way to purchase medical cannabis or continue purchasing medical cannabis is from a federally licensed producer online, by written order or over the phone, delivered by secure mail.
Medical cannabis resources online.
Additional resources
Resources for parents, consumers and health professionals.