Is Weed Legal in Canada?

When Did Weed Become Legal in Canada?

Canada legalized recreational cannabis on October 17, 2018, becoming the second country in the world (after Uruguay) to fully legalize marijuana nationwide. The Cannabis Act (Bill C-45) was passed by the Canadian Parliament and received Royal Assent on June 21, 2018.

This made Canada the first G7 nation to legalize recreational cannabis, creating a regulated market for adults to purchase, possess, and consume marijuana legally.

What is the Legal Age to Buy Weed in Canada?

The legal age to purchase cannabis varies by province and territory:

How Much Weed Can You Legally Possess?

Under the Cannabis Act, adults can legally possess:

• In public: Up to 30 grams (approximately 1 ounce) of dried cannabis
• At home: No limit on the amount you can store, as long as it was legally purchased
• Fresh cannabis: Up to 150 grams (equivalent to 30g dried)
• Edibles: Up to 450 grams of edible products
• Concentrates: Up to 7.5 grams of concentrates
• Cannabis seeds: Up to 30 seeds

Where Can You Legally Buy Weed in Canada?

Cannabis can be legally purchased from:

• Provincial government stores: Each province has its own retail system (e.g., OCS in Ontario, BC Cannabis Stores)
• Licensed private retailers: Physical dispensaries licensed by provincial authorities
• Online dispensaries: Licensed online retailers like Shatter Online Canada that ship across the country

Online purchasing offers convenience, privacy, and often better selection and prices than physical stores.

Can You Grow Weed at Home in Canada?

In most provinces, adults can grow up to 4 cannabis plants per household for personal use. However, there are important rules:

• Plants must be grown from legally obtained seeds or seedlings
• The 4-plant limit is per household, not per person
• Plants should not be visible from public areas
• Quebec and Manitoba prohibit home cultivation entirely
• Landlords and condo boards may have additional restrictions

Where Can You Consume Cannabis in Canada?

Cannabis consumption rules vary by province, but generally:

• Private residences: Legal in all provinces (subject to landlord rules)
• Public spaces: Rules vary - some provinces allow it where tobacco smoking is permitted
• Vehicles: Illegal to consume while driving or as a passenger
• Workplaces: Generally prohibited, similar to alcohol
• Near schools/playgrounds: Prohibited in most jurisdictions

What Are the Penalties for Breaking Cannabis Laws?

While cannabis is legal, there are still penalties for:

• Selling without a license: Up to 14 years in prison
• Giving cannabis to minors: Up to 14 years in prison
• Possessing over the limit: Up to 5 years in prison
• Driving while impaired: Criminal charges, license suspension, fines
• Taking cannabis across borders: Criminal charges in both countries