Using cannabis legally


Last revised: August 29, 2023

You must be 19 and older to buy, use and grow non-medical cannabis. It is illegal to share cannabis with anyone who is under 19 years of age.

Where can I buy cannabis?

You can buy cannabis at an authorized retailer or from the online Ontario Cannabis Store. Look for the authorized cannabis retail seal to make sure it is a legal store. Legal stores get cannabis from licensed producers. Licensed producers test products for quality and accurate THC levels. 

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Where can I use cannabis?

The Smoke-Free Ontario Act, 2017 prohibits smoking or vaping cannabis in:

  • Enclosed public places (inside businesses, hospitals, restaurants),
  • Enclosed workplaces,
  • Common areas of buildings, such as hallways, laundry rooms and entertainment rooms,
  • Schools and school grounds,
  • Hospital grounds,
  • Near child care centres,
  • Restaurants, bars and patios, and
  • Vehicle or boat, whether the person is a driver or passenger. This restriction applies to any form of cannabis.

Smoking or vaping tobacco and non-tobacco substances, including cannabis, on City property is also not allowed (City parks, arenas, recreational centers, libraries and pools).

Landlords, condominium boards and co-operative housing boards may also have more rules on where cannabis can be used. Check what rules apply to your residence.

If you use in public, be mindful of others. Second-hand smoke can be harmful, especially for children, pregnant women, older adults, and people with respiratory problems. If possible, keep your home smoke and vape-free.

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How much cannabis can I have in public?

You can have up to 30 grams (about one ounce) of dried cannabis or the equivalent in other forms in public.

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Can I grow cannabis at home?

You can grow up to four plants per residence (not per person). Landlords, condominium boards and co-operative housing boards may have rules on growing cannabis. Check what rules apply to your residence. 

Some people may choose to grow their own cannabis for personal use. If growing at home, please consider factors that can cause health and safety risks. For example:

  • Accidental consumption or poisoning,
  • Compromised indoor air quality due to high humidity levels, odour, and carbon monoxide,
  • Exposure to pesticides, and
  • Electrical and fire hazards.

If you are growing cannabis at home, follow these environmental health and safety tips.

More resources:

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What are the laws for driving after using cannabis?

Driving a vehicle while impaired by cannabis and/or any other substances is illegal and dangerous. This includes cars, trucks, boats, snowmobiles and off-road vehicles.

Impairment from cannabis is almost immediate and can last up to 6 hours or more, depending on factors such as THC levels and how it is consumed. The effects can last longer for new users, people who have consumed a lot or have combined cannabis with alcohol or other substances.

If you are 21 or under, a novice driver, or a commercial driver, there is a zero-tolerance law for impaired driving, meaning you cannot have any alcohol or other substances (drugs) in your system.

Plan a safe ride with a sober friend, use public transit or a ridesharing service.

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Can I travel with cannabis?

Cannabis is only legal inside Canada’s borders. It is illegal to take cannabis outside of Canada.

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For more information on resources and services, visit our Mental Health, Addictions and Substance Use Health Services and Resources webpage.
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