Quebec Cannabis Laws
Updated on Thursday January 6, 2022
In an effort to ensure the safety of children and other residents of the province, Quebec implemented their own amended legal cannabis framework on October 17th, 2018 known as the The Cannabis Regulation Act.
The legislation sets out detailed parameters for how legal cannabis is enforced in the province as well as detailed limits and restrictions for consumers.
Age Limit
The minimum legal age to buy, possess and consume cannabis in Quebec has been set at 21 years old.
Possession
Adults of legal age are allowed to possess different amounts of cannabis whether they are in a public space or in the privacy of their own home. When in a public place, adults are permitted to possess 30 grams of dried cannabis or its equivalent.
When in the privacy of their own home or private residence, adults are legally allowed to possess a maximum of 150 grams of cannabis. Please note this limit is per household, meaning that the total cannabis permitted in the private residence is 150 grams no matter how many adults of age are living there. Additionally, possession of cannabis is prohibited in certain public places that are accessible to minors including but not limited to schools, parks and sports fields.
Purchasing
Adults 21 years of age and older are allowed to purchase no more than 30 grams of cannabis in the course of a single retail visit. All retail cannabis outlets are authorized and regulated by the Société québécoise du cannabis (SQDC). Adults of age have the option of purchasing recreational cannabis from either retail dispensaries or through the government’s approved online website.
At this time, only three types of cannabis products are available for purchase: dried cannabis, cannabis oil and fresh cannabis.
Consumption
Adults of age are allowed to legally consume cannabis in their own homes and residences (landlord restrictions may apply) or in select places where tobacco use is also allowed. Quebec prohibits cannabis consumption in all areas where smoking and vaping tobacco are also banned. This includes but is not limited to hospitals, universities, schools, bike paths and bus shelters.
Click here to view the full list of places where cannabis consumption is prohibited.
Medical Cannabis
Medical cannabis and recreational cannabis in Quebec have no relationship with one another and will be treated as completely separate entities. If you’re interested in learning more about obtaining medical cannabis in Canada, please contact Health Canada.
Driving Under the Influence
Quebec has a zero tolerance policy for consuming cannabis and operating a motor vehicle. Any violators will face steep punishments from law enforcement.
Click here to read more on Quebec’s policy for cannabis and driving.
Cannabis in the Workplace
The Cannabis Regulation Act states that employers, if they so choose to, may prohibit the use of cannabis within their own respective office policy.
Cultivation
The cultivation of cannabis for personal use is strictly prohibited in Quebec. It is illegal to possess or grow any amount of cannabis plants in Quebec. Only government approved producers are legally allowed to cultivate cannabis in Quebec.