British Columbia passed its own set of marijuana laws and regulations, called the Cannabis Control and Licensing Act, in preparation for Canada’s cannabis legalization on October 17, 2018.
The bill establishes the foundation for British Columbia’s burgeoning cannabis infrastructure, intending to maintain public safety.
Age Restrictions
British Columbia has set the minimum age for cannabis purchase and use at 19.
Possession
Adults age 19 or up are permitted to possess up to 30 grams of cannabis.
Purchasing
When buying legal cannabis in British Columbia, there are three choices:
- Legal retail establishments that are privately owned and operated
Government-run retail stores - Online stores managed by the government
- The Liquor Distribution Branch (LDB) is responsible for operating and managing public retail facilities and digital stores in British Columbia, while the
Liquor and Cannabis Regulations Branch (LCRB) is in charge of licensing private shops and supervising retail components.
Consumption
Adults of legal age can generally smoke or vape cannabis in public spaces where tobacco smoking and vaping are allowed. Source
Top Dispensaries in British Columbia
Transportation
Adults 19 years of age and older are legally permitted to transport cannabis in their vehicles, provided they fulfill the following guidelines:
- The cannabis in concern must come from a federally licensed grower.
- The cannabis must be in its original packaging, which has never been opened.
- The cannabis must be out of access to the driver and any passengers of the vehicle.
- In the vehicle, no more than four cannabis plants must be budding or blooming.
Driving While Intoxicated
Driving while under the influence of cannabis is strictly prohibited in British Columbia.
Cultivation
Adults of legal age are permitted to grow up to four cannabis plants per home. Adults must only produce cannabis from seeds obtained from legal cannabis retailers.
FAQs
Is cannabis legal in British Columbia?
Yes, on October 17, 2018, cannabis was made legal across Canada, including in British Columbia.
What is the legal age for cannabis possession and consumption in British Columbia?
19.
How much cannabis can I possess in British Columbia?
Adults of legal age may possess up to 30 grams of cannabis.
Where can I consume cannabis in British Columbia?
Adults of legal age can generally smoke or vape cannabis in public spaces where tobacco smoking and vaping are allowed, subject to local laws. Source
Can I grow my own cannabis in British Columbia?
Yes, individuals aged 19 and above are permitted to grow up to four plants per household from legally obtained seeds.
Am I allowed to transport cannabis within British Columbia?
Yes, adults of legal age are permitted to transport cannabis in their cars as long as the amount transported is under the legal limit, is secured in closed packaging, and is kept out of reach of the driver and other passengers.
Where can I purchase recreational cannabis in British Columbia?
Adults of legal age can buy recreational cannabis from regulated and licensed, privately operated retail shops, government-run retail outlets, or government-run digital sellers.