FAQ

Cannabis is a broad term used to describe the various products derived from the leaves, flowers and resins of the Cannabis sativa and Cannabis indica plants, or hybrids of the two. These products exist in various forms and are used for different purposes (e.g. medical, recreational, industrial).

One of a class of chemical compounds that act on cannabinoid receptors in animals and humans, cannabinoids can be naturally extracted from cannabis plants. Over 104 different cannabinoids have been identified, with varied potencies depending on the plant or product. The most commonly-known cannibinoids are THC and CBD:

• THC (delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol): is the compound primarily responsible for the psychoactive effects of cannabis
• CBD (cannabidiol): CBD is a chemical found in marijuana. CBD doesn't contain tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the psychoactive ingredient found in marijuana that produces a high. 

You must be 18 years of age to buy or consume cannabis.

This is the same as Alberta’s minimum age for purchasing and consuming alcohol and tobacco. It is also the federal government’s proposed minimum age for legal cannabis.

Albertans 18 years and older can buy cannabis products from retailers that receive their products from the Alberta Gaming and Liquor Commission (AGLC).

The AGLC distributes cannabis similarly to the way it currently distributes alcohol.

Government-regulated distribution ensures a level playing field for all producers, and prevents small communities from being penalized for delivery costs by making sure product is shipped at the same price no matter where it’s going.

All physical stores have strict government oversight through licensing by the AGLC. The AGLC sets terms and conditions on licences, inspects retailers and addresses any violations. This ensures private cannabis retailers operate responsibly and lawfully.

Licensed retailers are the only stores that can sell cannabis. They cannot sell cannabis if they also sell alcohol, tobacco or pharmaceuticals.

Minors are not allowed to buy cannabis or be on licensed premises, even if accompanied by an adult. All customers will be asked to produce photo I.D.

Buyers are limited to 30 grams of cannabis per transaction, which is also the legal public possession limit. Consumer education is embedded in the retail of cannabis, and our outlet displays point-of-purchase signage and other informational materials to help customers make responsible choices.

Online sales and home delivery is only available through a single website operated by the AGLC at albertacannabis.org. No other online sales or delivery is allowed. This is in response to concerns raised by Albertans about the need for strict control over age verification during the sale and at time of delivery. It also gives Albertans confidence in their purchases, as there is a single online source for recreational cannabis.

Albertans are allowed to consume cannabis in their homes and in some public spaces where smoking tobacco is allowed, but it is banned in vehicles.

Municipalities have the power to create additional restrictions on public use. Know your local rules before consuming.

• Tobacco and Smoking Reduction Act (Section 3)

To protect children and limit second-hand exposure, public smoking or vaping of cannabis is prohibited in the same places tobacco is restricted, plus:

• on any hospital property, school property or child care facility property
• in or within a prescribed distance from:
  • a playground
  • a sports or playing field
  • a skateboard or bicycle park
  • a zoo
  • an outdoor theatre
  • an outdoor pool or splash pad
• inany motor vehicle except, those being used as temporary residences, such as parked RVs

Cannabis cannot be consumed at any cannabis retail outlet.

Adults over 18 can possess up to 30 grams of cannabis in a public place, in line with the federal possession limit.

When cannabis is in a car, it must be secured in closed packaging and not within reach of any occupants.

Young people — those under the legal age of 18 — are not allowed to buy or possess any cannabis.

Youth who possess 5 grams or less will not be charged criminally (which could negatively impact their future), but will be subject to seizure of the cannabis, notification of parents or guardians, and penalties similar to those for underage possession of alcohol or tobacco.