Cannabis legalization arrives on October 17, 2018 making it legal for individuals 19 years of age and older to buy, use, possess and grow recreational cannabis in Ontario. As a child welfare organization, keeping cannabis out of the hands of youth, and keeping kids safe, is of utmost importance.
Regulations to prevent underage use of, and child exposure to cannabis can be found in the Cannabis Act.
Similar to tobacco and alcohol, it is illegal to provide cannabis to someone under the age of 19. It is also illegal for anyone to smoke or vape cannabis:
- at school, on school grounds, and all public areas within 20m of these grounds
- on children’s playgrounds and public areas within 20m of playgrounds
- in child care centres, or where an early years program is provided
- in places where home child care is provided – even if children aren’t present
The documents below are helpful resources for parents and caregivers of older children and youth.
Cannabis: What Parents/Guardians and Caregivers Need to Know
Cannabis Talk Kit: Know How To Talk With Your Teen
To find more information, please visit the Government of Ontario’s website.
