The skinny:
Age restrictions: 19+
Where to buy: Both government and privately-run storefronts and online sales. The province is placing no limit on the number of stores, but municipalities may limit or prohibit shops within their boundaries. All marijuana producers will sell their product to the Liquor Distribution Branch (LDB), who will distribute it to retail locations, government-run or otherwise. Vancouver already has marijuana dispensaries, so authorities felt the government couldn’t be the sole distributor. Cannabis will be sold independently from alcohol across the province. Only in rural areas will the law allow retailers to sell cannabis alongside other items, like lottery tickets and food.
Home Grow: Up to four plants, out of public sight.
Where to consume: Prohibited in cars, public places such as parks and beaches, in areas frequented by children and wherever tobacco is restricted. Impaired driving laws for British Columbia will resemble Quebec’s legislation. Driving under the influence merits a 90-day suspension under B.C.’s no tolerance policy.
Other notes: Landlords can restrict cultivation and smoking on their properties.