On October 17th, 2018, cannabis became federally legal in Canada, which means that Quebec’s regulated recreational cannabis market is fully operating and available to people of age 21 and older.
The Société québécoise du cannabis (SQDC) enforces and oversees recreational cannabis, which is governed by the Cannabis Regulation Act. Quebec is poised to become one of Canada’s most popular cannabis destinations, and the government is working hard to ensure that legal marijuana does not jeopardize the safety of its residents.
The Act establishes comprehensive criteria for how legal cannabis is enforced in the province, as well as consumer prohibitions and restrictions.
Age Restrictions
Quebec has set the minimum age for cannabis purchase and use at 21.
Possession
Adults of legal age are permitted to possess 30 grams of dried cannabis or its equivalent. Source
Purchasing
Adults 21-year-olds and older are permitted to purchase no more than 30 grams of cannabis in a single retail visit. The Société québécoise du cannabis authorizes and regulates all retail cannabis shops (SQDC). Adults of legal age can buy recreational cannabis from retail outlets or via the government’s authorized internet website.
Consumption
Adults of legal age are legally allowed to consume cannabis in their residences and dwellings (landlord limitations may apply) or in venues where tobacco use is permitted. In Quebec, cannabis consumption is prohibited in all locations where smoking and vaping tobacco are also prohibited.
Top Dispensaries in Quebec
Transportation
Adults 21 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 Quebec. Consuming cannabis while driving is highly prohibited, and offenders will face severe penalties.
Cultivation
Growing cannabis for personal use is completely forbidden in Quebec. In Quebec, it is illegal to possess or grow any number of cannabis plants. In Quebec, only government-approved growers are legally permitted to cultivate cannabis. Source
FAQs
Is cannabis legal in Quebec?
Yes, on October 17, 2018, cannabis was made legal across Canada, including in Quebec.
What is the legal age for cannabis possession and consumption in Quebec?
21.
How much cannabis can I possess in Quebec?
Adults of legal age may possess up to 30 grams of dried cannabis (or its equal) in public areas and up to 150 grams of dried cannabis (or its equivalent) in their own house or dwelling. Please keep in mind that the 150-gram restriction is a residential limit, which means that no matter how many adults live in a house, no more than 150 grams of cannabis may be held. Source
Where can I consume cannabis in Quebec?
You cannot consume (vape, smoke, etc.) cannabis in a public place in Quebec. You also can’t smoke on a bike or in a vehicle. Source
Can I grow my own cannabis in Quebec?
No, growing cannabis for personal use is strictly prohibited in Quebec. Source
Am I allowed to transport cannabis in Quebec?
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 within Quebec?
Adults of legal age can buy recreational cannabis from government-authorized retail cannabis stores or online retailers controlled and regulated by the Société québécoise du cannabis (SQDC).