Cannabis infractions

The legalization of cannabis, which came into force on October 17, 2018, marked a significant change for consumers in Canada. That said, legalization is not absolute: several restrictions continue to govern the possession, consumption, production, and sale of cannabis. The Cannabis Act, a federal law, establishes the general legal framework applicable across the country.

However, it is provincial legislation that specifies the rules applicable within each province. The Cannabis Regulation Act, which is a provincial law, determines what is permitted and what is prohibited in Quebec. It is essential to comply with these rules in order to avoid any criminal or penal charges.

Below is some useful information to help better understand what is authorized and what is prohibited with respect to cannabis in Quebec.

Cannabis possession

Legal age:

21 years old in Québec, whereas the legal age in Canada is 18 years old.

Legal quantities for possession:

In a public place: 30 grams

In a house: 150 grams

It is illegal to possess a marijuana plant.

Prohibition to possess cannabis in certain places, such as:

on the grounds, premises or in buildings providing preschool education services, elementary and secondary school instructional services, educational services in vocational training or educational services to adults in general education,
on the grounds, premises or in buildings of a college-level educational institution;
on the premises or in the buildings of a university-level educational institution, except student residences;
on the grounds and in the facilities of a childcare centre or day care centre, as well as
on the grounds, on premises or in buildings used for detention.

Interdiction to smoke marijuana in public places:

In Quebec, it is prohibited to smoke or vape in all indoor or outdoor public spaces, including public roads. However, a municipality can authorize to smoke in a municipal park, by posting a sign which indicated the area where smoking is permitted.

Cannabis production

Cultivation

The federal regime permits the cultivation of up to four cannabis plants per residence. However, Quebec has adopted provisions prohibiting any at-home cannabis production. It is therefore prohibited to cultivate cannabis plants in a residence, even for personal consumption purposes.

Sale of cannabis

It is illegal to buy cannabis from any person or place other than the SQDC.

It is therefore prohibited for anyone to sell cannabis in Quebec.