Ottawa Cannabis Laws for Visitors: What Travelers Should Know
The below is not legal advice and is not a substitute for conducting your own due diligence and consulting cannabis legislation as it pertains to Canada.
Visitors traveling to Ottawa often have questions about cannabis laws in Ontario. Since cannabis became legal across Canada, travelers can purchase and possess cannabis legally as long as they follow provincial rules.
If you’re visiting Ottawa, here are the most important cannabis laws to understand.
Legal Age to Buy Cannabis in Ontario
In Ontario, you must be 19 years or older to buy cannabis from a licensed cannabis store.
Customers will be asked to show valid government identification when making a purchase.
How Much Cannabis Can You Carry?
Canadian law allows adults to carry up to:
30 grams of dried cannabis or equivalent in public.
Equivalent amounts include:
cannabis edibles
cannabis oils
cannabis concentrates
These limits apply to both residents and visitors.
Where Cannabis Can Be Used in Ottawa
Cannabis consumption rules in Ontario are similar to tobacco regulations.
Cannabis generally cannot be used in places such as:
restaurants and bars
indoor public spaces
inside vehicles
near schools or playgrounds
Hotels and rental properties may also have their own policies regarding cannabis consumption.
Buying Cannabis in Ottawa
Cannabis must be purchased from licensed cannabis retailers authorized by the Province of Ontario.
These stores provide regulated cannabis products that meet Canadian safety standards.
Visitors arriving through Ottawa International Airport often search online for nearby cannabis stores shortly after landing.
Why Ontario Uses the Term “Cannabis Store”
Many visitors search online using the word “dispensary.” However, in Ontario the correct legal term is licensed cannabis store.
Understanding the terminology helps visitors navigate Canada’s legal cannabis system more easily.
Final Thoughts
Cannabis laws in Ottawa are straightforward once visitors understand the basics.
Remember these key points:
You must be 19+ to purchase cannabis
Buy only from licensed cannabis stores
Do not carry cannabis across international borders
Follow Ontario’s public consumption rules