FAQ
OCS provides adults in Ontario with access to reliable cannabis products for responsible use and aims to help consumers separate cannabis myths from facts. If you’re unfamiliar with consuming cannabis or simply trying something new, please visit our Learn section for factual information about cannabis and cannabis consumption. Don’t see your question below? Please reach out to our Customer Service Centre for further assistance at 1-888-910-0627 or through Live Chat. Our team is available Monday to Saturday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. ET.
Cannabis Info
-
Do you have vegan or gluten-free edibles?
The product catalogue on OCS.ca includes a selection of edible products that do not contain animal products. Indicating ingredients, possible allergens, gluten or sulphites is a mandatory labelling requirement for all edible products. See nutritional labels for a full list of ingredients.
-
Do edible packages indicate if the product is nut-free?
Indicating possible allergens, gluten or sulphites is a mandatory labelling requirement for edible products. All edible packaging will list potential allergens that are or could be present in the product, including peanuts and tree nuts.
-
Are edibles produced in a nut-free environment?
Whether the product is produced in a nut-free environment depends on the Licensed Producer’s facility. However, packaging of all edibles will list potential allergens that are or could be present in the product, including peanuts and tree nuts.
-
Do hemp and cannabis produce different types of CBD?
In short, no. The molecule remains the same, regardless of which type of plant it comes from. -
What's the difference between hemp and cannabis?
“Hemp” and “cannabis” are terms for the same species of plant, cannabis sativa. While the two have a similar appearance, the term “hemp” is used to classify cannabis plants that contain no more than 0.3% tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). As with cannabis, Health Canada regulates hemp production and controls the type of hemp strains that producers are allowed to grow. Health Canada reports that because these strains contain so little THC, the psychoactive cannabinoid in cannabis, they cannot produce the “intoxicating effect” typically associated with cannabis use. -
How do I understand the THC and CBD content displayed on my cannabis product label?
In its natural state, cannabis has a low level of active cannabinoids. When cannabis is decarboxylated, either through heating or processing, its cannabinoid levels increase. So, the CBD and THC content are displayed on every product label in two ways.
On package labels, the first numbers, listed as “THC” and/or “CBD”, represent the active cannabinoid levels in the cannabis as purchased. Dried cannabis will have a low level of active cannabinoids because it hasn’t been heated yet.
The second numbers are listed as “Total THC” and “Total CBD.” These figures represent the active cannabinoid levels in the cannabis when ready for consumption. Because oil and capsule products have been processed (and the cannabinoids heated already), the second and first numbers will be the same between products.
To find out more about how to understand the information listed on a cannabis product label, click here.
-
Do cannabis products have an expiry date? How do I know if my product is fresh?
Cannabis labels must list the date the cannabis was packaged, which indicates when the finished product was placed and sealed in its final packaging. Expiry dates, which are used to communicate the stability of the product in regard to potency, are not mandatory in Health Canada regulations, so some Licensed Producers will provide them, but many do not.
If the product is properly stored in a dark, dry place and in an airtight container, it should maintain its full potency until opened. If you have any specific questions, please contact our Customer Service Centre at 1-888-910-0627 or by Chat.
-
Why is the cannabinoid content listed differently for dried flower than it is for oils or capsules?
To be precise about the cannabinoid content within each product, it is measured differently by format. Dried flower products list cannabinoid content in percentage relative to the total cannabis purchased. Pre-rolls and capsule content is measured in totals per unit, and oil content is listed in milligrams per milliliter.
To understand and compare the information on the different product formats, click here.
-
Why does legal cannabis sometimes cost more than what’s available on the illegal market?
While some of our prices (which include HST) might be slightly higher than those encountered on the illegal market, when you buy from OCS.ca or AGCO-authorized retail stores, you’re getting tested, traceable, high-quality cannabis products. -
How do I grow my own cannabis plants indoors?
Cannabis plants require a lot of attention and very specific conditions to thrive. You’ll need an enclosed space where you can control light and humidity. On average, indoor plants require 12 hours of light and 12 hours of darkness to promote flowering. Watering your indoor cannabis plants regularly with filtered water will help encourage growth.
-
When will my cannabis plants be ready for harvesting?
Cannabis is typically ready to be harvested eight to 12 weeks after the plant flowers, although the timing varies depending on the cultivar and whether you’re growing indoors or out. Learn more about growing and harvesting your own cannabis plants. -
Do you offer refunds for seeds that do not germinate?
No. Unfortunately, we do not provide refunds for seeds that do not germinate.
About My Order
-
Why does my address fill in automatically when I’m checking out?
To make your checkout experience easy and quick, OCS.ca uses Google autocomplete for address forms. When you start entering the first few characters of your address, Google autocomplete provides options that can prevent incorrectly typed addresses and expedite the checkout process.
-
How long do you keep my personal information?
Your personal information is kept only as long as it is necessary for the purposes it was collected and for any legal requirements, after which it is destroyed in a timely and secure manner.
To see how we protect and use your information, please review our Privacy Statement. If you have additional questions, contact our Customer Service Centre at 1-888-910-0627.
-
Shipping Update
Holiday Shipping Update
We will not be delivering products on Dec. 25 and 26, and Jan. 1.
Want to ensure it arrives before the holidays? We have several shipping options available, depending on the delivery services available in your area.
To get your delivery by 9:30 p.m. on Dec. 24, you can:
- Order by 1 p.m. on Dec. 18 and select Canada Post Xpresspost delivery
- Order by 1 p.m. on Dec. 21 and select three-day Express delivery (if available in your area)
- Order by noon on Dec. 24 and select Same-Day delivery (if available in your area)
There are currently three options for delivery:
- Same-Day Delivery by Domain Express – $8 ($7.08 + HST)
- Express Delivery (within three days) by Domain Express – No Charge
-
Canada Post – Xpresspost Delivery (within five to 10 business days) by Canada Post – No Charge
Which delivery options am I eligible for?
Same-Day and Express Delivery are currently available to select customers in Southern Ontario. We are continuously working with our delivery partners to consider opportunities to expand coverage for this service to new postal codes.
Canada Post – Xpresspost Delivery is available throughout Ontario. To find out which delivery options are available to you, check our list of delivery areas or enter your postal code at checkout.
For Same-Day and Express Deliveries
- When submitting your order, please enter a mobile phone number (no landlines, please). We will text you order updates.
- If you select the Same-Day Delivery option, your order will arrive the same day between 5 p.m and 10:30 p.m. The cut-off time for Same-Day Delivery is 1:30 p.m.
- If you select the Express Delivery option, your order will arrive within three days between 5 p.m and 10:30 p.m.
- Get more information about delivery options.
For
Canada Post – Xpresspost Deliveries Your order will be delivered to your door within five to 10 business days.
-
Can I pay with a prepaid credit card?
Yes. We accept all major prepaid credit cards. We recommend keeping your prepaid credit card until you’ve received and are satisfied with your order — if there’s a problem with your order, we can issue refunds only to the card used at checkout.
-
What should I do if I have a complaint about the quality of product I purchased at an Authorized Cannabis Store?
-
Will I have to show my ID when I receive my order?
Yes. If you choose Same-Day or Express delivery at checkout, you will need to show the delivery driver a valid government-issued photo ID that proves you are 19 years of age or older. To accept a delivery from a Canada Post delivery agent, you must show an original valid government-issued photo ID and sign for the package. An order can be delivered only to an adult 19 years of age or older.
-
Do I have to be home to receive my order?
Anyone who is 19 years of age or older and lives at your residence may accept your order, as long as they show valid government-issued photo ID.If no one is available to accept a Canada Post delivery, the agent will leave a delivery notice with instructions for pick up. If your package is being picked up from a Canada Post outlet by someone other than you, they must show valid government-issued photo ID (or a document such as a utility bill) that shows they have the same address as you. If they do not live at the same address, they must show a valid government-issued photo ID and either the notice card (signed by you and with their name printed on it) or a letter of authorization or a legal document (such as power of attorney) demonstrating their authority to act on your behalf.If no one is available to accept a Same-Day or Express delivery, the delivery will be reattempted the next day. If the second delivery attempt is unsuccessful, your order will be returned to the OCS Distribution Centre. Once we receive the package and process your return, a refund will be issued through the original method of payment. -
What will happen to my Same-Day or Express Delivery order if I use a PO box as my shipping address?
Orders placed with a PO box for Same-Day or Express delivery will be returned to the OCS Distribution Centre. A refund will be issued once the return is processed.
-
How will my order be delivered?
Get the latest information on delivery and shipping methods, timing and fees.
-
Can I place an order if I’m currently outside of Ontario?
Yes. International customers are able to place orders on OCS.ca provided the order is delivered to an address within Ontario. The OCS will deliver products only to addresses in Ontario. Anyone who is 19 years of age or older and lives at the residence may accept your order, as long as they show valid government-issued photo ID.
-
How do I contact the Licensed Producer of my product?
Every Licensed Producer must provide their name and contact details, including an email address and phone number, on the product label. Each product also includes a lot number, which refers to a specific harvest, or “lot” of products. The lot number helps trace the product back to quality control processes. Take note of the lot number if you are making a product inquiry.
-
Can the OCS shipping and packaging boxes be recycled?
Some cannabis packaging can be recycled in your curbside recycling program or at your local recycling depot, depending on where you live. There are also programs that specialize in non-recyclable waste that accept cannabis packaging from Licensed Producers
We make sure that whenever possible, we choose shipping materials that can be reused or recycled. OCS-branded cardboard boxes, packing paper and packing slips are all fully recyclable.
My Account
-
How will my personal information be used, and is it secure?
Your privacy is important to us. To see how we protect and use your information, please review our Privacy Statement.
-
How do I deactivate my OCS account?
To deactivate your OCS account, please reach out to our Customer Service Centre by calling us at 1-888-910-0627 or through Live Chat.
-
Do I have to make an account to check out?
No, you do not have to make an OCS account to purchase products. You can still buy products without an account through our guest checkout.
-
What are the benefits of signing up for an account with the OCS?
With an OCS account, you can enjoy faster checkout, view your order history, add and edit your saved addresses, and more features to come!
Cannabis Health & Safety
-
How do I report an adverse reaction?
If you purchased a product from an Authorized Cannabis Store and you’ve experienced an adverse reaction, reach out to the retailer to initiate a return or exchange. The store will then open an investigation with the OCS regarding the product.
If you purchased a product directly from OCS.ca and you’ve experienced an adverse reaction, please contact us at 1-888-910-0627, between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. ET, from Monday to Saturday. One of our customer service representatives will be able to assist you further.
You may also choose to report an adverse reaction directly to Health Canada.
-
What are some of the safety features of cannabis packaging?
Every legal cannabis product is packaged in child-safe, tamper-proof packaging to protect youth from the harms of cannabis. Additionally, because THC is intoxicating, the label for any product containing THC above 10 micrograms per gram will feature a red icon to indicate the presence of THC and a message highlighted in yellow carrying a health-related warning.
-
How can I safely dispose of cannabis?
To help protect others, especially children or youth, Health Canada suggests that you make cannabis unfit for consumption prior to disposing of it. One method of disposing cannabis is to blend the cannabis with water and mix it with cat litter, to mask the odour, and then place it in your regular household garbage.
-
How can I reduce the risks of consuming cannabis?
Cannabis use has health risks that are best avoided by not using it. However, there are steps that can be taken that will reduce the health risks associated with use:
- Delay cannabis use until later in life (after the age of 25)
- Avoid using synthetic cannabis (e.g., K2, Spice)
- Avoid use of cannabis before operating a vehicle, and wait at least six hours after using cannabis before operating a vehicle
- Avoid mixing cannabis with alcohol or tobacco
- Avoid smoking cannabis
- Limit and reduce how often you use cannabis
Find out more about how to reduce the risks of consuming cannabis.
-
Can I use cannabis while pregnant or breastfeeding?
There is no evidence to suggest that any level of cannabis consumption is safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding. It may pose risks to both the pregnant person and the baby.
-
Does cannabis consumption lead to other drug use?
There is limited evidence that suggests cannabis consumption is a “gateway drug,” likely to precede the use of other legal and illegal substances and the development of addiction to other substances. The majority of people who consume cannabis do not go on to use other substances, such as stimulants or opioids.
-
Is it unhealthy to inhale cannabis smoke?
Inhaling smoke of any kind can lead to lung damage and respiratory problems. Certain smoking practices, such as deep inhalation or holding your breath, increase these risks. Cannabis smoke contains chemicals and tar that are similar to tobacco smoke.
-
Is it possible to overdose on cannabis?
It is possible to consume too much cannabis, but understanding the signs and risks of overconsumption will ensure you’re making informed decisions.
While there have been no reported adult deaths from overconsumption of cannabis, you’re not likely to hear anyone recommend the experience. Consuming too much cannabis can be quite unpleasant, although the effects are generally temporary. If you’re new to cannabis — especially if you’re new to edibles — the best approach is to start low and go slow.
-
Are there programs to help me if I think I’ve become addicted?
Free, confidential help is available in Ontario. You can talk to a healthcare provider or contact a support group. Learn more about cannabis use disorder.
-
Why shouldn’t alcohol be consumed with cannabis?
Combining cannabis with alcohol or medications can lead to unpredictable effects and increased risk of addiction or adverse reactions. Find out more about the risks of mixing substances.
-
Why shouldn’t tobacco be consumed with cannabis?
Tobacco is harmful on its own, and consuming tobacco and cannabis together has been associated with developing a dependence on either substance, negative mental health outcomes, engagement in risk-taking behaviours and increased difficulty stopping cannabis use. In addition, consuming both substances may also lead to increased health risks compared to consuming just one or the other, such as negative impacts on the respiratory system.
-
Can I drive while or after using cannabis?
No. Impaired driving is illegal — in Canada, it’s a criminal offence with serious consequences, including possible jail time. The effects of cannabis can last up to 24 hours, depending on individual factors such as your age and genetic makeup, the method of consumption and the potency of the cannabis product. But unlike alcohol, there’s no scientific evidence to suggest a limit that’s safe for driving or how long a driver should wait to drive after consuming cannabis.
Consuming cannabis can significantly impair your ability to drive safely. Cannabis consumption affects critical driving skills, for example, by causing drowsiness, slowing reaction time and impairing your ability to respond to multiple things at once.
Plan your ride home in advance, grab a lift from a sober friend, use public transit or call a rideshare service or taxi.
Cannabis Products
-
What should I do if my vape cartridge has crystallized?
Don’t worry — this doesn’t mean your vape cartridge is defective. In fact, crystallization naturally occurs in vape cartridges that contain about 60% CBD or more. Try applying low heat, and then inhaling two or three times. This may temporarily remedy the crystallization. If that doesn’t work, hold the vape cartridge firmly between your palms for two to three minutes. The heat from your hands will heat the oil chamber, which should decrystallize it temporarily. When the vape cools, the oil will likely recrystallize. Repeat the above methods before next use as needed.
-
What are edibles?
Edible cannabis products are foods, such as gummies, brownies, cookies and chocolates, and beverages that have been infused with cannabis extracts and concentrates, all of which contain active ingredients, such as the cannabinoids tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD). Edibles are absorbed through the digestive tract and provide a smoke-free option to cannabis, but it can take much longer to feel the effects when ingesting cannabis than when smoking or vaping. However, depending on the dose and potency levels, effects can feel more pronounced and may last longer than the effects you experience when smoking or vaping.
-
What is an oral spray?
An oral spray is cannabis oil — cannabis extract mixed with a neutral oil — that has been packaged in a spray bottle and is taken orally. Cannabis oral sprays are sprayed into the mouth, typically under the tongue or inside the cheek, for absorption.
-
How do I use an oral spray?
The cannabinoids in the oral spray are absorbed through the mucous membranes in the mouth, allowing for relatively fast onset of effects.
To use the spray, shake the bottle well, spray under your tongue or inside your cheek and hold it in your mouth for 15 to 20 seconds before swallowing. Always follow the product’s instructions.
-
What are cannabis concentrates?
Concentrates have been extracted from cannabis flower and processed into a concentrated form. These products can come in liquid or solid form, such as hash, rosin, shatter, wax and kief, and are either ingested or inhaled. Effects can be experienced almost immediately after consumption and can last one to three hours or longer, depending on the person.
-
What are cannabis topicals?
Topicals are cannabis-infused products that are intended to be applied to skin, hair or nails. Infused through the bloodstream, most products do not cause intoxication or psychoactive effects and allow you to feel the therapeutic effects of cannabis without smoking or vaping. Examples of these products include lotions, balms and soaps. To learn more about topicals and what’s next for cannabis in Canada, click here. -
Why does legal cannabis seem to be packaged so excessively?
To protect against accidental consumption, ensure products are not appealing to children or youth and provide consumers with the necessary information to make informed decisions, Licensed Producers must adhere to strict packaging and labelling requirements enforced by the federal Cannabis Act and Health Canada. Unfortunately, these requirements result in the mandatory inclusion of bulky and excess packaging, regardless of the quantity of the product ordered. The good news is that cannabis packaging can be recycled, depending on where you live.
-
Can I recycle my cannabis packaging?
Some cannabis packaging can be recycled in your curbside recycling program or at your local recycling depot, depending on where you live. There are also programs that specialize in non-recyclable waste that accept cannabis packaging from Licensed Producers.
We make sure that whenever possible, we choose shipping materials that can be reused or recycled. OCS-branded cardboard boxes, packing paper and packing slips are all fully recyclable.
-
Can I send back cannabis packaging to be reused or refilled?
Currently, cannabis packaging cannot be reused or refilled due to health and safety regulations, but some producers are exploring future options. Find out more about recycling cannabis packaging.
-
Is legal cannabis tested for quality before being sold?
Yes. All cannabis products sold on OCS.ca and at Authorized Cannabis Stores undergo strict and rigorous testing for harmful substances by federally licensed third-party laboratories. Each product requires a certificate of analysis (COA) and a statement of attestation (SOA) outlining the product’s lot number with acceptable sample test results that have been checked and verified by a laboratory approved and designated by Health Canada.
-
My dried flower has lost its moisture content, what can I do?
At the time of packaging, dried flower typically has a moisture content of 8% to 15%. However, over time, and depending on how it is stored, moisture loss will occur. To reintroduce moisture back into your dried flower, you can add a humidity pack to an airtight container and remove it once the product has reached the desired level of moisture.
-
Does dried flower cannabis go bad?
If the product is properly stored in a dark, dry place and in an airtight container, it should maintain its full potency until opened. After opening, the product may degrade over time.
Legalization
-
Can I grow cannabis at home?
Yes. By Canadian law, you are permitted to grow up to four plants in your home (not per person).
-
Can I grow cannabis plants outdoors?
Cannabis plants are annuals, and because they are not indigenous to Ontario, outdoor growing is challenging. Plant them outside in mid- to late spring in a private, fenced-in spot with good soil and plenty of sun and space, and water them regularly.
Ontarians aged 19 and over are legally allowed to grow up to four cannabis plants per home (not per person) for personal use.
-
Where can I consume cannabis?
Currently, you can smoke or vape recreational cannabis in your private home, in your unit or on your balcony (depending on your building rules); in many outdoor public places (like sidewalks and parks); in designated guest rooms in hotels, motels or inns; residential boats or vehicles fitted with permanent sleeping accommodations and cooking facilities when parked or anchored and meet other criteria; and in controlled areas in long-term care homes, certain retirement homes, residential hospices, provincially funded supportive housing, designated psychiatric facilities or veterans’ facilities. However, other laws and policies may apply to restrict cannabis use in these places, such as municipal by-laws, condo by-laws, lease agreements and the policies of employers and property owners.
-
Can I go into the United States or any other countries with my legally purchased cannabis?
No. Never cross the Canadian border with your legally purchased cannabis. Cannabis remains an illegal substance in the U.S. and many other countries, despite some states legalizing cannabis for non-medical and medical purposes.
-
Can I give cannabis to a minor in my home?
No. According to the Cannabis Act, parents and guardians can face significant legal consequences for distributing cannabis to a minor. Cannabis may be legally purchased and consumed by adults 19 and older.
-
What is the difference between cannabis from the OCS and cannabis from an Authorized Cannabis Store?
-
Can I bring cannabis products into Canada from the United States?
No. If you are entering Canada from another country and you have cannabis with you in any form, you must declare it to the Canada Border Services Agency. Not declaring cannabis in your possession at the Canadian border could lead to arrest and prosecution. -
Who regulates the production and sale of recreational cannabis?
Health Canada regulates the production and promotion of legal cannabis across Canada. It ensures public health and safety through strict licensing and quality standards. Find out more about who does what in legal cannabis in Ontario.
-
What is the legal age to purchase cannabis?
In Ontario, you must be at least 19 years of age to buy and possess cannabis. Find out more about buying legal cannabis.
-
Can I travel with cannabis outside the province?
As of October 17, 2018, recreational cannabis became legal across Canada. The public possession limit of a maximum of 30 g of dried cannabis, or the equivalent in other formats, per individual is the same in all provinces and territories. You may travel with cannabis within Canada, but crossing the Canadian border with cannabis remains illegal, even after legalization.
-
How much recreational cannabis am I allowed to purchase?
Adults 19 years of age or older may purchase up to 30 g of dried cannabis, or the equivalent in other formats, per transaction. OCS.ca includes a shopping bag calculator that’s visible during shopping and when confirming an order before payment. This calculator automatically converts all cannabis products into the equivalent of dried cannabis in accordance with federal legislation. While customers may select more than 30 g in the shopping bag, selections must be narrowed down to 30 g or less when confirming an order and purchasing products.
Canadian legislation restricts the maximum amount of cannabis an individual may possess in public to 30 g. Adults 19 years of age or older in Ontario may possess over 30 g in a private residential dwelling. If you choose to grow cannabis yourself, you are permitted to possess only up to four cannabis plants per private residential dwelling (not per person).
-
Why can I buy only 30 grams at a time?
Provincial legislation reaffirms the federal restriction of 30 g of dried cannabis, or the equivalent in other formats, as the maximum legal amount of cannabis an individual can possess in public. Adults 19 years of age or older in Ontario may possess over 30 g in a private residential dwelling.
