SOME FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT CANNABIS & YORK REGION

Effective Oct. 17, 2018, recreational cannabis became legal across Canada. The City of Vaughan continue their review of the Ontario government’s new legislation regarding the sale, distribution and consumption of recreational cannabis in the province. However, currently here are a few frequently asked questions about Cannabis and the City of Vaughan.

Where Can I Smoke?
Additional restrictions on smoking and vaping may exist in lease agreements and the policies of employers and property owners. So, if you are renting or leasing, make sure to double check your agreement, as well as double check with employers and property owners.

Where Will it be Sold?
People 19 years old and over will be able to purchase recreational cannabis online through the Ontario Cannabis Store. As of Oct. 17, 2018, the Ontario Cannabis Store website will be the only legal option for purchasing recreational cannabis. It will follow strict rules set by the federal government and the provincial government.

The provincial government has also introduced legislation that, if passed, would introduce a tightly regulated private retail model for recreational cannabis that would launch by April 1, 2019.

The legislation would establish the Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario (AGCO) as the provincial regulator authorized to grant store licenses. The Ontario Cannabis Store would be the exclusive wholesaler to these stores. Private stores would be introduced with strict controls to safeguard children and youth and combat the illegal market.

For more information on private retail please visit the Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario.

Is there a by-law around odour?
The proposed Ontario Cannabis Act, the current Smoke-Free Ontario Act, 2006 and the proposed Smoke Free Ontario Act, 2017 do not address odour issues when it comes to Cannabis.

Currently, most municipalities, including the City of Vaughan, do not regulate odours.

What rights, if any, do tenants and homeowners have regarding smoking and growing recreational cannabis in a rental property?
For information on tenant and homeowner rights and responsibilities regarding the smoking and growing of recreational cannabis, please contact the Landlord and Tenant Board at 1-888-332-3234.

What does the City of Vaughan manage versus York Region?
York Region Public Health, Tobacco and Electronic Cigarettes Control Officers will enforce the proposed Smoke Free Ontario Act, 2017 which will regulate the sale, supply, use, display and promotion of tobacco and vapour products, including smoking and vaping of cannabis.

I am concerned about a grow-op in my neighbourhood, who can I call?
When it comes to recreational home cultivation of cannabis permits four plants per residence indoor or outdoor (not per person). Health Canada permits individuals with medical authorization to grow cannabis; this varies from person to person and is also dependent on their prescription and the number of plants permitted is calculated by Health Canada.

Call your local police department’s non-emergency line to report suspected criminal activity. In York Region, that number is 1-866-876-5423.