Cannabis has been legal in Canada since October 17, 2018, through the Cannabis Act. This Act created a strict regulation on the distribution, production, sale, and possession of cannabis in Canada.
The legalization of medical cannabis across Canada enabled consumers to buy from a legal dispensary. This Act also allowed consumers to grow their plants. All you need is to follow the regulations set forth by the Cannabis Act.
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The legality of cannabis in Canada
Source: The Green Fund
The Cannabis Act officially legalized the production, sale, possession, and distribution of cannabis in Canada. It aims to keep cannabis from the reach of minors, keep profits from criminals, and protect the safety and health of the people through the legal procurement of cannabis.
Subject to territorial restrictions, adults who are 18 years old or above may:
- Possess up to 30 grams of cannabis
- Share up to 30 grams of cannabis to other adults
- Buy from licensed retailers
- Make cannabis products
- Grow up to 4 cannabis plants using seedlings from licensed sources
There is a strict regulation by the federal, provincial, and territorial governments in Canada. The Federal government is responsible for the strict licensing requirements for those who grow and manufacture cannabis. Provinces and territorial governments are responsible for implementing and maintaining the systems on the distribution of cannabis products.
There is a reduction in criminal activity reported to the police due to the implementation of the Cannabis Act. It is partly credited to the criminal penalties set forth under the Act. Penalties range from warnings and tickets for minor offenses to imprisonment and criminal prosecution for serious offenses.
Although the Cannabis Act allows the legal use of cannabis, territories and other provinces may impose their regulations and restrictions on the sale, production, use, and distribution of cannabis in their area of jurisdiction.
For example, in Alberta, people are allowed to grow cannabis. While in British Columbia, people are allowed to grow cannabis only if the plants are not visible to the public. Meanwhile, in Manitoba, only those with a medical license can grow cannabis.
Home growing
Source: Maclean’s
As mentioned above, you can only grow up to 4 cannabis plants using seedlings from licensed sources. The four plant limit puts a cap on how many cannabis plants a household can grow. Remember that this limit is a per household limit and not a per person limit, regardless of how many people live in one property.
To grow cannabis in Canada, you should have a Health Canada card registration certificate. Every certificate issued by the government will have growth limits. These limits include the maximum cannabis plant limit, maximum storage limit, and maximum cannabis possession limit.
Growing cannabis in Canada means that you should adhere to the rules and laws set by the Canadian government. You should only grow cannabis for medical purposes. You are not allowed to share it with someone else. However, you can designate another person to grow your medical cannabis for your consumption.
It is also vital to remember that as a grower, you have the responsibility to keep the plants out of the hands of minors. You can grow your cannabis plant inside a secured room or within a grow box to prevent access to minors or pets. According to indoorgrowtech.com, just make sure to use an inline fan for efficient ventilation of any self-contained growing environment. Always remember that you can only grow cannabis seeds from authorized sources. These authorized sources include licensed producers, seed banks, and licensed breeders.
Growing for sale
Source: Winnipeg Free Press
To start your cannabis business in Canada, you should first get professional help and guidance. In some cases, you need to consult tax experts, lawyers, and accountants before you venture on your cannabis business.
The most important thing you have to obtain is a license. Keep in mind that there are certain qualifications before one can get a license. Also note that only a few provinces allow private retailers because provinces like Quebec, Nova Scotia, Prince Edward Island, and New Brunswick only have government-run retailers.
How to store cannabis
Source: PotGuide.com
Cannabis should always be stored in a secured area where children and pets cannot access them. It needs to be contained in a secure area, preferably with a lock. The lock installed should be solid. You should also keep the product in the original packaging marked with the THC universal sign.
There are certain health concerns and risks of growing cannabis. It’s vital that you should properly store your cannabis to avoid accidental ingestion. Children will get sick if they eat or drink cannabis. If this happens, call PADIS at 1-800-332-1414. Pets can also get poisoned if they drink or consume cannabis. If this happens, call your vet.
Safe disposal
Source: Green Rush Packaging
If you have excess cannabis that is unfit for usage, you should dispose of it properly. Any excess should be disposed of because you should follow the limits set by law. Blend the cannabis with water, then mask the odor by mixing with cat litter, and then place it in your regular garbage can. You should never burn your dried cannabis.
Get a Health Canada Legal Grow License
Source: The Globe and Mail
Whether you grow cannabis for personal use or business, you need to obtain the requisite license before you can legally grow it. The Cannabis Act requires a person to obtain a license issued by Health Canada before conducting activities using cannabis.
A license is valid for two years, which cannot be automatically renewed. To renew your license, you should apply for a license renewal not later than 30 days from the expiration of your previous license. For your renewal to be approved, you should also continue to meet the requirements during the time of your license.
Getting a license can be a tedious job. The best thing to do is to ask for help from consultation companies. Many of them are easily reachable through their website, such as www.cannabisgrowingcanada.com. Simply comply with the requirements set by law, provide for the licensing fee, and mail your application. Once your application is received, the ACPMR will register your need for cannabis and send your license to you.
Takeaway
Cannabis has several health benefits. However, everything should be in moderation. Be responsible for your cannabis intake. Always remember the restrictions and regulations set by the Cannabis Act to avoid penalties.
