Legal Cannabis in Canada: The Basics

Canada has proudly been one of the world’s leaders in the legalization of cannabis. After a long history of persecuting this plant on a global scale, a breakthrough occurred in 2015, when Prime Minister Justin Trudeau pledged to reform these outdated laws and safely regulate the growth and distribution of marijuana. Since then, we have seen the United States steadily follow suit with the gradual legalization of cannabis in an increasing number of states.

Prior to the legalization of marijuana in 2018, legal restrictions in Canada proved detrimental to society. At the time, a large portion of the underage population was illegally purchasing and using marijuana on a regular basis. In some cases, this meant purchasing products such as edibles or pre-rolled joints that were laced with other, more dangerous substances. The thriving black market for cannabis made it impossible for buyers to know exactly what they were getting. This also made it difficult to develop programs that test for THC levels in drivers, and subsequently prosecute people driving under the influence.

Additionally, prisons were filling up with people who were in possession of cannabis. This meant that not only were a mass amount of profits going to the black market instead of legitimate organizations, but Canadians were also losing tax money to keep people behind bars for a non-hazardous plant. To the liberal party, it became clear that Canadians would be far better off with lawful access to weed for medical and recreational purposes.

Current Restrictions On Cannabis Consumption

Similar to alcohol, the legalization of cannabis does not mean that sales and consumption of this substance are going unregulated. Rather, the federal government has put in place a number of restrictions to ensure the safe production, and age-appropriate consumption of this drug. Let’s go over the key legal restrictions that you should know about in order to enjoy the high life without running into any problems.

One of the primary concerns outlined by the Prime Minister in the formation of the Cannabis Act was how to keep weed out of the hands of underage people. This is essential for the responsible consumption of mind-altering cannabinoids. Although provincial governments have some control over age restrictions, the legal age in most regions is 19, with the exception of Quebec and Alberta, where people of the age of 18 are legally allowed to purchase and consume cannabis products. Those who provide underage individuals with access to marijuana may be sentenced with over a decade in jail.

Another important law to keep in mind as a cannabis user is the legal limit of how many grams of this substance you are allowed to possess at one time. In Canada, an individual may not have more than 30g of dried cannabis on their person in a public setting. The reason for this is that law enforcement must be able to differentiate those who have legally purchased the drug from those who are participating in the illegal sale of marijuana. Carrying a large quantity in public is indicative of selling on the black market, which can result in fines or even worse – jail time. Although you are able to carry a small amount of weed on your person, consuming cannabis in public is prohibited in many areas, depending on local restrictions.

In the development of the Cannabis Act, many Canadians were expressing interest in growing their own cannabis at home rather than buying from a retailer. This is now legal across the country, however homeowners are only legally allowed to grow up to four plants at one time.

Restrictions On The Sale of Cannabis Products

Running a business that sells cannabis products requires extensive research on the part of the owner, to ensure all guidelines are met. One of the main qualifiers of legally grown cannabis is a stamp of approval by Health Canada. This government organization is responsible for confirming the production methods used by cannabis farmers. Suppliers that have been approved to distribute their plants to retail stores must hold a valid license. Once this license has been obtained, suppliers are required to mark all of their products with a standardized excise stamp to indicate government approval.

Like production and processing facilities, retail stores are also required to obtain a special business license in order to sell cannabis products in Canada. Licenses, business models, and application processes vary slightly between provinces, however business owners can find all of the information they need on their corresponding provincial government website. What is strictly prohibited, is the sale and movement of cannabis products across borders, as well as the creation of product advertisements. This is reminiscent of the advertising laws surrounding the sale of cigarettes in Canada.

THC is the active ingredient in marijuana, which causes users to experience mind-altering effects. Retailers have the freedom to sell a variety of unique cannabis products including edibles, flowers, oils, capsules, and more. However, there are regulations surrounding the amount of THC that each of these products can contain.

Despite the very recent legalization of cannabis, the Canadian government has successfully implemented laws that regulate every aspect of cannabis use, possession, production, and sales. At Happy Tree Buds, all of our products are marked with information on CBD and THC content so that you can relax and enjoy living in the weed-friendly, Great White North. Read more about our products and buy online today.