It’s hard to believe it’s already been a year since cannabis became legal in Alberta, but we’re super happy to see how much everyone is embracing the big changes. As more people adopt the new way of life, we’ve been answering a lot of questions around the dos and don’ts of cannabis use. And since our team at Mountain View Cannabis is committed to keeping you informed, we thought it might be a good time for a refresher on the rules for users of cannabis in Calgary.
To save you the google search and keep you in the know, we’ve written down the most common questions our bud-tenders get asked about legal consumption.
What’s the legal age for cannabis use in Alberta?
The short answer- users must be 18 years old to consume or purchase Cannabis. Why? The Cannabis industry in Alberta is regulated by the Alberta Liquor, Gaming and Cannabis Commission – also known as AGLC – so the rules for distributing and buying Cannabis are similar to those of liquor sales.
How old do you have to be to purchase cannabis?
Similar to consumption, It is illegal for individuals under the age of 18 to buy or consume cannabis, regardless of what form it’s in, and anyone who appears under the age of 25 is required to show government issued ID at the time of purchase. It’s also worth mentioning that minors are not permitted in Mountain View Cannabis, or any cannabis dispensary, even if they are accompanied by a parent or adult.
It’s against the law for anyone under the legal age limit to have possession of any cannabis products and they could be criminally charged for having more than 5 grams on them.
How much cannabis can you buy?
Each cannabis sale is restricted to 30 grams (or the equivalent for other forms of cannabis noted below) since that is the maximum legal limit for public possession.
The AGLC recognizes that one gram of dried cannabis is the same as: five grams fresh cannabis, 70 grams of liquid cannabis, 15 grams of edibles, one plant seed, 0.25 grams of solid or liquid concentrates.
How can you purchase cannabis?
Since the industry is heavily regulated and age must be verified for each transaction, the sale of cannabis is limited to private in-store purchases and retail outlets cannot sell it online in Alberta. Online sales of cannabis are limited to a single website, which is operated by the AGLC.
Where can you consume cannabis?
It is illegal to consume cannabis in vehicles and anywhere that it is sold. The one exception to the vehicle rule is that cannabis can be used in parked RV’s and motorhomes.
Users can legally consume it in the same public places as tobacco, as well as in their homes. Any smoking or vaping in public is also restricted to same places as tobacco to limit second-hand exposure and keep kids safe from inhalation. Each city has the ability to implement additional rules about public use, so make sure you look into them before lighting up.
What forms of cannabis are available?
Currently, cannabis can be bought in oil, plant seed, capsules and fresh or dried form.
Can you grow cannabis at home?
Adults are permitted to grow up to four cannabis plants per household, only if using seeds from a registered retail outlet. This rule may be different for those renting their homes or living in a condo depending on condo bylaws and rental agreements, so if you’re thinking of growing make sure you have approval before you get started.
Can you drive after consuming cannabis?
Driving under the influence of cannabis is considered to be driving-impaired and is against the law. Since legalization, impaired driving laws have been updated to include cannabis consumption so if you’re planning on using it make sure you arrange for a safe ride.
And just like that, you’re an expert on the laws of cannabis in Calgary.
We hope this answers all your questions, but if you have others we’d be more than happy to answer them for you. Give us a call anytime at 403-457-7490 or come by our retail location so we can talk.