Survey opens on cannabis consumption spaces

British Columbians are able to have their say on holding special events for consuming non-medical cannabis.

The province is launching an online public engagement about cannabis consumption spaces to determine whether to permit the spaces and how they could be regulated.

‘Cannabis consumption space’ refers to business or special events that provide cannabis for on-site sale and use, such as cafes, lounges, concerts or festivals, ticketed events and spas.

“We have heard from cannabis businesses that consumption spaces could provide an opportunity for the sector to become more economically viable and could better meet the interests of people who use cannabis,” said Mike Farnworth, Minister of Public Safety and Solicitor General.

“At the same time, others have raised public health and safety concerns, which will need to be carefully weighed. We want to hear the views of all British Columbians so they can help shape how B.C.’s cannabis sector continues to evolve.”

If the province moves forward with permitting consumption spaces, the regulations would be aligned with provincial public health and safety objectives, such as not allowing indoor smoking and vaping.

The cannabis framework that includes a key role for Indigenous and local governments in determining whether and where licensed cannabis sales can take place will be applied to cannabis consumption spaces.

The province is seeking input on a wide range of activities and considerations in the online engagement survey. The survey closes on May 9, 2022.

A report summarizing the results of the engagement will be released later this year.