Did you know that 15% of Canadians have reported using marijuana? Due to its recent legalization, the government has established new laws surrounding the use and possession of recreational marijuana. 

With this guide, you can learn about the new marijuana legislation in Canada. From when it was legalized to how it’s enforced, marijuana is still considered a high priority. Now let’s take a look at what you need to know about Canada pot laws: 

When Did Canada Legalize Marijuana? 

Canada officially legalized marijuana on October 17, 2018. Its legalization made the recreational use of marijuana legal throughout the country.  

Under the Cannabis Act, the government established rules on the production, distribution, and consumption of all marijuana products. Its purpose is to keep cannabis from the youth and out of the hands of criminals while giving adults access to legal marijuana.  

5 Facts About Canada Pot Laws 

There is still much that’s unknown about the legalization of marijuana. However, here are five facts you need to know: 

Each Canadian Territory or Providence Regulates Marijuana Differently  

Every providence and territory controls marijuana possession. Similar to alcohol laws, each territory has established its own legislation regarding marijuana. Thus, each has different minimum age requirements and allowed smoking locations.   

For instance, in Quebec, anyone who is 18 or older can purchase marijuana products. Smoking is allowed in private residences or in public places where tobacco is allowed. 

Although, in New Brunswick, you can only buy marijuana if your 19 or older. Unlike Quebec, marijuana is not allowed in public places but instead only in private residences. 

Also, in each providence and territory, the price of marijuana is different. For example, in New Brunswick, prices range between $8 to $15 per gram. However, in Quebec, products start at only $7 per gram. 

There Are Still Limits on Marijuana Possession   

Possession of marijuana is legal; however, there are limits to that possession within Canadian law. In Canada, you can only possess up to 30 grams of dried marijuana or a similar amount in other products. That similar amount includes 50 grams of a liquid product, five grams of fresh marijuana, or other forms of the plant. 

Failure to follow these new laws can result in up to 14 years in prison. 

There New Consequences For Impaired Driving 

Following the legalization of marijuana, police can now conduct saliva tests on drivers they believe are under the influence. What happens next is dependent on how much THC is in the driver’s blood.  

• Drivers who are found with two to five nanograms in their system can face a fine up to $1,000. 
• Drivers with either five or more nanograms in their system or found consuming alcohol at the same time can face steeper fines and prison time. 
• In more serious cases, drivers can face up to 10 years in prison. 

Driving with THC in your system is often plagued by slow response time, blurry vision, and distracting hallucinations. These are likely to lead to car accidents.

If you have a car accident, call a car accident referral service. They will help you find a lawyer or a doctor if needed. 

Marijuana Is Not Largely Advertised 

In recent years, Canada has significantly lowered its tobacco advertisements to prevent people from smoking. Marijuana will have those same rules in order to discourage adolescents from purchasing cannabis. 

Thus, marijuana won’t have fancy packaging or massive promotional ads. Instead, expect limited branding and few health warnings on packages.  

However, just because it’s legal doesn’t mean its safe for everyone. The government is likely to spend over $100 million on public education and awareness. Researchers are also studying how marijuana affects one’s health. 

It’s Illegal to Cross the Canadian Border With Marijuana 

No one can take marijuana across the Canadian border, whether you’re exiting or entering. This includes any amount, even for medical purposes. It even extends if your traveling between two places that have legalized or decriminalized marijuana. 

Since cannabis is still illegal in most countries, you can be denied entry into a country if you’ve been involved in the marijuana industry. Foreign officials might ask about your exposure to the substance and if you’ve possessed it or consumed it while traveling. If so, officials can find you in violation of their laws and deny you entry into the country. 

Who Do These Laws Apply To? 

Since Canadian laws do extend to tourists, Canada has become a popular destination for purchasing and using weed. Although, when using, you must have a good understanding of each territory’s laws and regulations. 

Since laws change from territory to territory, you must respect them whether you live in the area or you’re visiting on vacation. If you break one or more of a territory’s regulations, you could face considerable consequences. 

You might have to pay a steep fine of $800 or possibly face prison time. While marijuana is now considered to be a legal substance, if you possess over the legal limit, police officers have the right to make an arrest. 

Final Thoughts  

The legalization of marijuana has largely affected how Canadians use and purchase the substance today. By allowing each providence and territory to create their own laws, it’s lead to a variety of regulations that one must remember. 

Canada pot laws are not as restrictive as other countries; however, keep in mind the legal limit is 30 grams. Anything more can leave you at risk for arrest. For more information on marijuana, visit our blog.