Use legally

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 Government of Ontario 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 (any form of cannabis).

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

Landlords, condominium boards and co-operative housing boards may have more rules on cannabis use. 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. If you are a tenant with concerns, please notify your landlord in writing and contact 3-1-1.  

Growing at home can cause health and safety risks from:

  • 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?

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 drugs in your system. Plan a safe ride with a sober friend, use OC transpo, Lyft, Uber, or a taxi.

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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.

Visit Cannabis and International Travel and Canada Border Services Agency- Information about cannabis for Travellers for more information.

For more information visit:

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Know where to go for help 

Don’t hesitate to get help if using cannabis is affecting your life. There are places to go to if you need help managing your use or if you have withdrawal symptoms.

If you are concerned about yourself or someone else, seek help from:

Signs you may need help with your cannabis or other drug use include:

  • Ignoring responsibilities at work, school, or home.
  • Giving up activities that you find important or enjoyable.
  • Using the drug more often.
  • Feeling unable to cut down or manage your use.
  • Changes in mood (e.g., feeling irritable and paranoid).
  • Changing friends.
  • Having difficulties with family members.
  • Being secretive or dishonest.
  • Changing sleep habits, appetite, or other behaviors.

Learn more about additional local mental health and addiction services.

 

 

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