Cannabis has been legal to use recreationally in Canada for a while now, but some may still not be aware of the specific areas where its use remains prohibited.

As there can be some hefty fines and charges for those caught breaking the law, it’s good to be aware of where you can and can’t enjoy cannabis.

Since its legalization, residents have typically been allowed to consume the drug in private residences including porches and backyards, most outdoor public places including sidewalks and parks, designated smoking guest rooms in hotels, motels and inns, and residential vehicles and boats that meet specific criteria (they have permanent sleeping accommodations and cooking facilities, and are parked or anchored).

So, where can you not use cannabis?

• Indoor common areas in condos, apartment buildings and university/college residences
• Enclosed public places and enclosed work places
• Non-designated guest rooms in hotels, motels and inns
• Child care centres and within 20 metres of school grounds and playgrounds
• Within 9 metres from the entrance or exit of hospitals, psychiatric facilities, long-term care homes, and independent health facilities
• Within 20 metres of publicly-owned sport fields (not including golf courses) and nearby spectator areas
• In a vehicle or boat that is being driven or will be driven
• In restaurants and on bar patios, or within 9 metres of a patio
• On outdoor grounds of specified Ontario government office buildings
• In reserved seating areas at outdoor sports and entertainment locations
• Within 20 metres of community recreational facilities
• In sheltered outdoor areas that are meant for public use, such as bus shelters

Residents should also know that they must be 19 or older to use cannabis, and are legally allowed to possess a maximum of 30 grams (about one ounce) of cannabis in public at any time.

For more information on all the laws governing cannabis use in Ontario, visit the provincial government’s website.