Manitoba Cannabis Laws
Updated on Thursday January 6, 2022
In preparation for legalization on October 17, 2018, Manitoba lawmakers passed The Liquor Gaming and Cannabis Control Act. The act defines the legal framework for Manitoba’s cannabis industry as well as outlines what is legal for consumers.
These laws were set in place to ensure the safety of Manitoba’s residents and the overall success of its cannabis industry.
Age Limit
In order to legally purchase, consume and possess cannabis in Manitoba, you must be 19 years of age or older.
Possession
Adults 19 years of age and older are legally allowed to possess up to 30 grams of non-medical (recreational) cannabis in public.
Purchasing Limits
Manitobans of legal age are legally allowed to purchase cannabis from the government’s private sector retail model. Manitoba’s retail dispensaries are regulated and overseen by the Liquor, Gaming and Cannabis Authority.
Click here to learn more about Manitoba’s retail cannabis framework.
Consumption
Cannabis consumption is strictly prohibited in public places within Manitoba. These prohibited public places include but are not limited to streets, parks, schools, restaurants and all other public places that currently prohibit smoking and vaping.
At this time, cannabis consumption is only legal within private residences or homes.
Additionally, while smoking or vaping cannabis is illegal in most enclosed public spaces, there are several exceptions such as in end-of-life hospices or a hospital’s palliative care section.
Medical Cannabis
The legalization of recreational cannabis has no impact on the existing medical cannabis program in Manitoba. The recreational and medical cannabis programs are two separate entities and medical cannabis is still overseen by the Federal Government.
Transporting Cannabis
It is illegal to transport cannabis outside of the Canadian border. It is suggested that you should consume the cannabis within the province or territory in which you buy it.
Driving Under the Influence
Driving under the influence of cannabis is strictly illegal in Manitoba and violators will face severe consequences under the province’s Highway Traffic Act. Additionally, law enforcement officers are also authorized to use saliva drug screening devices to determine if drivers are under the influence.
Cultivation
Growing non-medical cannabis in Manitoba is strictly illegal and Manitobans are not allowed to grow any recreational cannabis for personal use. Possessing a live cannabis plant is prohibited within the province as well.