On October 17, 2018, the Cannabis Act entered into force in Canada, making cannabis legal in the Northwest Territories. Adults aged 19 and up are now legally permitted to purchase, possess, consume, and produce cannabis throughout the territories.
The Northwest Territories Legislative Assembly enacted the Cannabis Legalization and Regulation Implementation Act with a particular emphasis on public safety and responsible cannabis practices to guarantee a seamless rollout of their legal cannabis business. In addition to the federal laws established by The Cannabis Legislation, the act provides the legal basis for non-medical cannabis enterprises.
Age Restrictions
Northwest Territories 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 or its equivalent in public places.
Purchasing
When buying legal cannabis in Northwest Territories, there are two choices:
- NTLCC-approved businesses
- NTLCC’s online marketplace
Adults aged 19 and above can lawfully buy up to 30 grams of cannabis or its equivalent in other goods.
Consumption
Adults of legal age are legally allowed to consume cannabis at their private property where smoking tobacco is allowed, on trails or roadways (when not operating a motor vehicle), and parks (when not in use for a public event).
Recreational cannabis use is prohibited in locations with a heavy circulation of children, such as schools, parks, playgrounds, and sports fields, to prevent exposure to cannabis smoke. Source
Top Dispensaries in Northwest Territories
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 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.
Driving While Intoxicated
Driving while under the influence of cannabis is strictly prohibited in the Northwest Territories.
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 the Northwest Territories?
Yes, on October 17, 2018, cannabis was made legal across Canada, including in the Northwest Territories.
What is the legal age for cannabis possession and consumption in Northwest Territories?
19.
How much cannabis can I possess in the Northwest Territories?
Adults of legal age may possess up to 30 grams of cannabis.
Where can I consume cannabis in the Northwest Territories?
Adults of legal age are legally allowed to consume cannabis at their private property where smoking tobacco is allowed, on trails or roadways (when not operating a motor vehicle), and parks (when not in use for a public event). Consumption of cannabis is strictly prohibited in any location frequented by youth. Source
Can I grow my own cannabis in the Northwest Territories?
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 the Northwest Territories?
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 the Northwest Territories?
Adults of legal age can buy recreational cannabis from NTLCC-licensed businesses or the NTLCC’s online marketplace.