The Northwest Territories (NWT) is one of Canada’s three territories, located in the northern part of the country. In 2018, Canada legalized the use of cannabis for both medicinal and recreational purposes. Since then, the NWT has established its own set of laws and regulations regarding the production, sale, and consumption of cannabis.
Possession and consumption of cannabis:
In the NWT, it is legal for individuals who are 19 years of age or older to possess and consume cannabis. Adults are allowed to possess up to 30 grams of dried cannabis or its equivalent in public, which includes any combination of dried cannabis, fresh cannabis, and cannabis oil. Possession of more than 30 grams of cannabis is illegal and could result in criminal charges.
It is legal to consume cannabis in private residences, but smoking or vaping cannabis is prohibited in public places, workplaces, vehicles, and other areas where smoking is prohibited. Public use of cannabis could result in a fine of up to $2,000. It is also illegal to drive under the influence of cannabis, and penalties for impaired driving could include fines, license suspensions, and even jail time.
Sale and distribution of cannabis:
The NWT Liquor and Cannabis Commission (NWT LCC) is responsible for overseeing the distribution and sale of cannabis in the territory. The NWT LCC operates four cannabis retail stores located in Yellowknife, Hay River, Fort Smith, and Inuvik. Online sales are also available through the NWT LCC website.
Individuals who are 19 years of age or older can purchase up to 30 grams of cannabis at a time from a licensed retail store. The sale of cannabis to minors is strictly prohibited and could result in criminal charges. The NWT LCC also regulates the wholesale distribution of cannabis to licensed retailers in the territory.
Production and cultivation of cannabis:
Individuals are permitted to grow up to four cannabis plants per household for personal use. However, the plants must be grown in a secure location that is not visible to the public. Individuals who are found to be growing cannabis in a public place could face fines or other penalties.
Commercial production of cannabis is also permitted in the NWT, but growers must be licensed by Health Canada and must comply with strict regulations regarding cultivation, processing, and distribution. Commercial producers must also comply with local zoning and land use regulations.
Conclusion:
The laws and regulations regarding cannabis in the Northwest Territories are similar to those in other parts of Canada. The possession and consumption of cannabis are legal for adults over the age of 19, and commercial production and sale are permitted under strict regulations. However, it is important to note that cannabis use, particularly smoking or vaping, is prohibited in public places, and driving under the influence of cannabis is illegal and could result in severe penalties.
