“High Times: A Friendly Guide to Legal Cannabis Purchase in Canada”
Welcome cannabis enthusiasts! If you’re reading this, chances are you’ve heard about the exciting changes in cannabis laws in our friendly northern neighbor, Canada. Here’s a fun and informative guide to help you navigate the world of legal cannabis purchase in Canada with ease.
First things first: It’s Legal!
On October 17th, 2018, Canada officially legalized recreational marijuana use nationwide, making it the second country globally (after Uruguay) to fully legalize the sale of cannabis. This move has brought about a new era for Canadian cannabis culture, making it easier and safer for Canadians and visitors alike to enjoy this popular plant.
Where to Buy?
Cannabis can be purchased from licensed retailers known as Cannabis Stores. As of February 2021, there are over 1,000 such stores across the country. To find a cannabis store near you, use the government-run website, or simply Google “Cannabis Store Near Me.”
What You’ll Need
To purchase cannabis in Canada, you must be of legal age. That means 19 years old in Alberta, Manitoba, Quebec, and Saskatchewan, while the minimum age is 18 in all other provinces and territories (19 in Ontario as of April 1st, 2019). Don’t forget to bring proper identification that verifies your age.
What You Can Buy
Cannabis products can come in various forms such as dried cannabis flowers, oils, capsules, seeds, and edibles (as of December 2019). Each province and territory sets its own regulations regarding product availability, so check your local laws before you go shopping.
How Much You Can Buy
As a customer, you can purchase up to 30 grams of dried cannabis per transaction from a licensed retailer. Keep in mind that individual provinces may have their own rules for home cultivation and personal possession limits.
Quantity Limitations
Individuals are allowed to possess up to 30 grams of legal cannabis in public and up to 4 plants at home (if the province allows home cultivation). However, transporting cannabis across provincial borders is prohibited.
Edibles, Extracts, and Concentrates
Edibles became legal on December 17th, 2019, but only in dried form (e.g., cookies, chocolates) with a maximum THC content of 10mg per product. Liquid forms (such as beverages), extracts, and concentrates will become available by the end of 2021.
Consumption Rules
Cannabis can only be consumed in private residences or designated smoking areas in certain provinces. Public consumption is illegal. Some provinces have laws against vaping cannabis as well.
Important Note
While it’s legal to possess and purchase cannabis in Canada, it remains illegal under U.S. federal law. Crossing the border with cannabis or its by-products could result in serious consequences for both Canadians and visitors alike.
Enjoy your Canadian adventure, and remember: stay informed, be responsible, and always respect local laws when purchasing and consuming cannabis! Happy exploring, fellow cannabis enthusiasts!