Recreational Regulations
Regulations concerning the consumption of cannabis for recreational purposes in Nova Scotia have been designed in accordance with Federal regulations. However, they also feature restrictions / allowances that are specific to the Province. Here they are in point form to allow you to have a strong understanding of Nova Scotia cannabis laws and how you can enjoy cannabis in accordance with them.
Nova Scotia Regulations:
- The minimum age for recreational use of cannabis is 19 in Nova Scotia.
- Areas of allowed use – private residences only, unless public locations specify it being allowed.
- Areas of controlled use – none specified.
- Areas where use is prohibited – all indoor places, and outdoor locations like school and daycare grounds, bar and restaurant patios, parks, beaches, sports venues, and playgrounds. Use in vehicles is also prohibited per Nova Scotia cannabis laws.
- Driving restrictions are a fundamental part of Nova Scotia cannabis laws – driving while under the influence of cannabis is strictly prohibited by law in Nova Scotia. Failure to abide by this legislation can result in any or all of the following repercussions:
- Immediate license suspension
- Financial penalties
- Possible vehicle impoundment
- Possibility of criminal record
- Possibility of jail time
- Place of purchase restrictions – Nova Scotia marijuana laws dictate that the Nova Scotia Liquor Corporation is the only authorized retailer of cannabis in the Province. There are 12 brick and mortar stores, and purchases can also be made online.
- Legal possession restrictions – individuals aged 19 and up are legally allowed to have a maximum of 30 grams of dried cannabis in their possession in public at any time. There are no restrictions on how much cannabis a person over 19 can have in their home. Anyone under the age of 18 and in possession of more than 5 grams of cannabis is subject to prosecution for a criminal offence.
- Legal transportation restrictions – marijuana in a vehicle must be in a closed, sealed package and placed in a space in the vehicle that is inaccessible to others.
- Legal growing restrictions – individuals aged 19 and up are able to grow up to four plants per residence, not per person. Rental agreements and condo bylaws restricting this must be respected, and landlords and strata councils can pursue legal avenues if they are not respected.
- Workplace regulations – there have been no changes to the Occupational Health and Safety Act in Nova Scotia as a result of cannabis legislation.
Nova Scotia Cannabis Laws on Medical Marijuana
In compliance with the Cannabis Act of October, 2018 individuals who have received authorization from the regulatory body of the Canadian Province where they reside may purchase, possess, and consume medical cannabis without personal storage limits in the home, and public possession limits as follows; the lesser of 150 grams or a 30-day supply of dried cannabis (or the equivalent in cannabis product) in addition to the 30 grams allowed for non-medical purposes. Individuals must be able to provide documentation of their medical marijuana authorization if in public possession of cannabis.
Municipal Variances: Recreational & Medicinal
There are no variances between the Province and its Nova Scotia marijuana laws pertaining to cannabis and regulations for individual municipalities in the Province. Provincial regulations will apply to all cities, towns, and elsewhere in Nova Scotia.
