Visitor’s Guide to Legal Cannabis in Ontario

Last updated April 21, 2026 | Published on April 21, 2026

Welcome to Ontario! As you explore everything the province has to offer, including iconic Toronto neighbourhoods, unforgettable food and culture and so much more, it’s helpful to know the basics about cannabis laws and safe consumption.

Ontario makes it simple and safe to access legal cannabis — as long as you’re at least 19 years old. Here’s a straightforward guide to help you navigate cannabis in Ontario: where you can consume it, how much you can possess and how to buy it legally.

How to buy legal cannabis (and why it matters)

To safely and easily buy cannabis in person in Ontario, visit an Authorized Cannabis Store. When you visit a retail store, look for the Cannabis Retail Seal displayed near the entrance. This is your assurance that the store is licensed and sells legal products.

Buying legal means you know exactly what you’re getting. All legal products are tested and labelled with tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD) content, so you can make informed choices based on your comfort level.

Explore more tips to ensure you’re always buying from a legal, trusted source.

Find a legal store near you

If you’re new to the area, the OCS Store Locator tool makes it easy to find licensed cannabis retailers nearby.

Use the Store Locator to:

• get directions to the closest Authorized Cannabis Store
• check hours and contact information
• plan ahead before heading out

Whether you’re staying downtown or exploring beyond the city’s core, using the Store Locator is the fastest way to find a legal, trusted source.

USE OUR STORE LOCATOR

How much cannabis can you have?

In Ontario, adults are allowed to possess up to 30 grams of dried cannabis (or its equivalent) in public. That includes other formats, like edibles, beverages, oils and vapes.

If you’re choosing different product types, the store will calculate the total for you, so you don’t have to do the math yourself.

Where you can (and can’t) consume cannabis

Cannabis can generally be consumed in many of the same places where tobacco smoking or vaping is allowed. However, local bylaws can vary, so it’s worth being mindful of posted signs or looking up municipal rules, especially in busy areas of major cities, such as Toronto.

Some of the places you can vape or smoke recreational cannabis in Ontario include:

• most private residences, including front porches and backyards
• many outdoor public places, such as sidewalks and parks (at least 20 metres away from schools and playgrounds)
• designated smoking guest rooms in hotels, motels and inns
• residential boats and vehicles that meet specific criteria, such as having permanent sleeping and cooking facilities, and are parked or anchored (excluding boats used to carry passengers for hire)

Keep in mind the places you cannot consume cannabis:

• restaurants and bars — indoors, on patios or within nine metres of patios
• sports and entertainment venues — reserved seating areas, sports fields, spectator areas and within 20 metres of the venue
• recreational facilities — on grounds and within 20 metres of the facility
  
  

Learn more about what’s legal and what’s not in Ontario.

Have a better experience: Start low, go slow

If cannabis is part of your plans while visiting, a mindful approach will make all the difference, especially if you’re trying a new product.

• Start with a low dose (especially with edibles or beverages), around 2.5 mg THC or less, and give it time to take effect before having more. The effects of edibles can take up to two hours to fully develop.
• If you’re smoking or vaping, begin with one inhalation and wait up to 30 minutes to see how you feel.
• Avoid mixing cannabis with alcohol, stay hydrated and pay attention to how your body responds.

If you don’t feel right

Overconsumption can happen, especially in unfamiliar settings. The most important thing is to stay calm.

If overconsumption happens:

• Rest in a quiet place.
• Keep hydrated.
• Eat something if you can.

And remember, most effects will pass with time.

If symptoms feel severe (such as chest pain, trouble breathing or loss of consciousness), call 911 to get medical help immediately.

Get around safely

If you’re carrying cannabis while travelling around the province, keep it sealed or stored out of reach in your bag. Having open or accessible cannabis in a vehicle can lead to penalties.

It’s also important to plan ahead. Driving under the influence of cannabis is dangerous and illegal. If you’re consuming, use public transit, taxis or rideshare services instead.

Lastly, make sure you do not take cannabis home with you across an international border.