British Columbia now allows cannabis consumption on public terraces

In British Columbia, smoking and vaping cannabis on public patios is now permitted where smoking and vaping tobacco is already allowed, subject to local or Indigenous bylaws and other rules.

Retail cannabis stores can now also promote a place to consume cannabis or spend time after consuming cannabis, which they were not previously allowed to do.

British Columbia initiated these changes in 2023 as part of a broader industry regulation initiative.

Cannabis consumption is still not permitted in cannabis stores. License holders must ensure that cannabis consumption near their store does not occur within their establishment.

Smoking and vaping are also prohibited in all workplaces and all indoor public spaces in British Columbia. Tobacco and vaping products may be used on an outdoor patio, such as that of a pub, casino, or coffee shop, provided it is located within a buffer zone and there are no open windows, doors, or active air intakes between the patio and the licensed establishment.

British Columbia is increasingly interested in cannabis consumption spaces and tourism, and last year launched a province-wide engagement document. The report What We Heard, stemming from this engagement process, was published in January 2023. This report indicates significant public support for consumption spaces, as well as concerns from law enforcement and public health agencies.

Jeff Guignard, executive director of the Alliance of Beverage Licensees (ABLE BC), which also serves the cannabis retail sector in British Columbia, expressed his enthusiasm for this announcement to StratCann.

«This is excellent news for the cannabis, hospitality, and tourism industries in British Columbia, and we are immensely grateful to our government partners for their support.

«Not only can businesses now advertise cannabis consumption lounges, but the government has also aligned the rules for cannabis consumption with those for tobacco or vaping, which makes perfect sense. This gives businesses much-needed flexibility to serve their cannabis-friendly customers.

«We are also delighted that the government is taking new steps in favor of cannabis consumption lounges, which will bring a whole new dimension to our growing industry,» he adds.

«As we recently discussed with Attorney General Mike Farnworth, we still have a lot to do to support legal licensed retailers. But these small steps in the right direction are clear signs that the government is listening and that we, as an industry, are making significant progress.»