FAQ
What is the legal age to purchase and use cannabis?
In British Columbia, the legal minimum age to purchase and use cannabis is 19. It is illegal to purchase cannabis for anyone under the age of 19.
How much cannabis can I order in one transaction?
You may purchase up to 30 grams of dried cannabis or the equivalent in oils, capsules, or seeds.
What is the equivalency for products other than dried cannabis?
The 30 gram possession limit in the Cannabis Act is based on dried cannabis. Equivalents were developed for other cannabis products to identify what their possession limit would be. One (1) gram of dried cannabis is equal to:
5 grams of fresh cannabis
15 grams of edible product
70 grams of liquid product
0.25 grams of concentrates (solid or liquid)
1 cannabis plant seed
How much can individuals possess?
According to the federal Cannabis Act, an individual may possess, in a public place, cannabis of one or more classes (dried flower, pre-rolls, oils, capsules, seeds) equivalent to 30 grams of dried cannabis. There is a possession limit of 1000 grams or equivalent in a private place.
Where can I legally use cannabis?
Cannabis may be used in private. It can be smoked or vaped in public in the same places where tobacco can be smoked or vaped, except in places where children commonly gather. Check your local smoking bylaws to be sure.
What ID do I need to show when purchasing cannabis?
You must show two pieces of ID, one of which must be issued by a government agency and include your name, birth date, and picture. The second must include an imprint of your name, signature and/or picture.
I live outside of BC. Can I still purchase from BC Cannabis Stores' online shop?
No. BC Cannabis Stores will not ship cannabis products or cannabis accessories outside of British Columbia.
Can I travel with cannabis I buy at BC Cannabis Stores?
You may travel within the province of BC with a maximum of 30 grams of dried cannabis or the equivalent in oils, capsules or seeds, however you may not use any cannabis products in any vehicles, whether they are moving or parked. It’s illegal to transport cannabis across the Canadian border. Cannabis laws are different between provinces and territories. This includes legal age, where you can smoke, use, and buy cannabis. Make sure to learn the laws before you travel.
Where can I buy cannabis online?
The only legal place to purchase non-medical cannabis online in BC is bccannabisstores.com.
Where can I buy cannabis in store?
Municipalities in BC control whether or not cannabis stores can open in their respective jurisdictions. The only legal place to buy cannabis in-store is in a licensed cannabis store or government cannabis store. View our store locator to find a BC Cannabis Store near you or use our online store to have cannabis shipped to your door.
I am a medical cannabis user. Can I buy my cannabis at BC Cannabis Stores?
Yes, however it will not carry with it the exemptions from rules around possession, use, etc. that cannabis purchased from a licensed producer under a medical authorization would.
How can I tell if a retailer is licensed?
Licensed retailers must display their licence in an obvious place inside the store. Check the Liquor & Cannabis Regulation Branch (LCRB) website for a list of licensed retailers.
Why did the Canadian federal government legalize cannabis?
The federal government has legalized cannabis in order to strictly regulate and restrict access to cannabis in Canada. The Cannabis Act implements a new comprehensive public health approach that will be more effective in protecting youth and keeping profits out of the pockets of criminals and organized crime.
What role does the BC Liquor Distribution Branch play in the sale of cannabis?
The BC Liquor Distribution Branch (LDB) will be the sole, wholesale distributor of non-medical cannabis for the province and will operate standalone, public retail stores and provide online sales under the BC Cannabis Stores brand.
Can I bring my underage child into BC Cannabis Stores?
No, unlike BC Liquor Stores, you may not bring anyone under the age of 19 into BC Cannabis Stores.
How do you ensure that minors can't access BC Cannabis Stores?
Age verification takes place at the entrance to all BC Cannabis Stores, so please ensure you bring two pieces of ID to prove that you are 19 or over.
What are you doing to prevent minors from purchasing cannabis from this site?
You must be 19 years or older to purchase from this site. It is illegal to purchase cannabis for minors. All products and product content is protected behind an age gate in-stores and online. Two pieces of government-issued ID must be produced when receiving a purchase from bccannabisstores.com.
What are the penalties for sharing cannabis with minors?
The Cannabis Act created two new criminal offences, with maximum penalties of 14 years in jail for giving or selling cannabis to minors, or using a minor to commit a cannabis-related offence.
What products are available to customers in BC?
British Columbians, aged 19 years or older, will be able to purchase dried cannabis flower, pre-rolls, oils, capsules, seeds, and cannabis accessories at BC Cannabis Stores and online.
Who provides cannabis to the BC Liquor Distribution Branch?
The LDB will only purchase non-medical cannabis from licensed producers, approved by Health Canada.
Who ensures the safety of the products in BC Cannabis Stores?
All cannabis products undergo laboratory testing at licensed testing facilities as per Health Canada safety standards. Approved non-medical cannabis products will be safely transported to the LDB’s warehouse by appropriately regulated transport agents before they are distributed to both the public and private retail stores.
Is cannabis I buy in-store or online fresh?
All cannabis flower is cured or dried to ideal levels by licensed producers before it is sold to customers. Products are kept in sealed packaging until purchased and efforts are made to maintain freshness at all times.
What’s a strain?
Strains are different varieties of cannabis that each come with their own unique array of cannabinoids and terpenes. Different strains may result in a different experience, depending on a number of factors.
What are indica, sativa, hybrid and high-CBD products?
Generally known by its Latin name, Cannabis sativa, cannabis has historically been thought of as consisting of at least two types, indica and sativa, which are believed to differ in terms of places of origin, height, and leaf shape. Most strains today are hybrids, a genetic cross between indica and sativa plants. A high-CBD product, containing greater than four percent CBD by weight, may be either indica-dominant, sativa-dominant, or a hybrid.
What are cannabinoids?
Cannabis contains hundreds of chemical substances. More than 100 of these are known as cannabinoids, including tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD), that are made and stored in the plant's trichomes.
What are terpenes?
Terpenes are chemicals made and stored in the trichomes of the cannabis plant, with the cannabanoids. Terpenes give cannabis its distinctive smell. The exact effects of terpenes on their own, and within cannabis are currently unknown.
Why do amounts of THC and CBD in a product sometimes change?
Total cannabinoids in a particular strain can differ slightly from one batch to the next, depending on a number of factors. It's important to remember that cannabis is a plant and it is common for some variability to occur.
What is the product label information telling me?
Product labels will include the name and contact information of the licensed producer, a brand name, the amount of THC and CBD, storage instructions, quality attributes, safety warnings, packaging date, lot number, weight, and Health Canada's THC warning symbol.
How can I tell how strong my product is?
Each product label will include the pre-consumption and total amounts of THC and CBD, in a percentage of the product's weight. The higher the percentage, the more concentrated the product.
Is today's cannabis stronger than it was in the 1980s?
THC potency in dried cannabis has increased from an average of 3% in the 1980s to around 15% today. Some strains can have an average as high as 30% THC.
I don't want to smoke cannabis. Are there other ways to use it?
Yes, other ways to use cannabis include cannabis oil products, including sublingual oils (placed under the tongue) and capsules.
Why can't I purchase edibles or concentrates?
Edibles and concentrates are still illegal under federal law.
Will transporting packaged cannabis result in an odour?
In its sealed original packaging, cannabis products should not result in an odour. Once opened or transferred to another container, consumers may find that their products have an aroma. Store cannabis products securely so that they can't be accessed by children, teens, and pets.
How do I store my cannabis after I've purchased it?
Store your cannabis in sealed container in a cool dark place, in a locked, child-proof container away from children, teens, and pets.
What does it mean if a product is showing as limited quantity?
The inventory for this product in the warehouse is at a low stock threshold. You may still be able to purchase this product. If the quantity you select is above the available stock level, upon checkout your cart will be adjusted to advise the quantity available. You can then review this amount and amend or remove it from your cart.
Please check our website for news about product recalls, as well as instructions for receiving a refund.
How will I know if a product is recalled?
In the event of a product recall, we will attempt to notify you at the email address you provided or, if unsuccessful, at the phone number you provided. You may contact the Customer Care Centre to discuss the handling and return of any recalled products.
What do I do if my product is recalled?
If the BCLDB offers a recall for a product you have recently purchased, you can return any unused products at your nearest BC Cannabis Store or by connecting with our Customer Care Centre via our Contact page to discuss the handling and return of any recalled products.
How are defective products destroyed?
After a defective product is refunded and returned, it will be destroyed in accordance with approved policy and procedures.
Are there any shipping restrictions?
Products can only be shipped to an address within British Columbia, and recipients must have government-issued ID with proof of age to receive the order. Canada Post will not deliver vaporizers containing lithium ion batteries to approximately 20 BC postal codes that may require air freight. Customers located within these postal codes are restricted from ordering vaporizers.
What delivery options are available?
Currently, BC Cannabis Stores offers expedited shipping via Canada Post.
What is the cost of shipping?
Shipping rates are offered at a flat fee of $8.00 (CAD) + applicable taxes, per order.
How do I track my order?
You will receive an order confirmation email with a tracking number and link to the Canada Post website.
When my order will be delivered?
Find out how long your delivery is likely to take to reach you, based on your location: Estimated delivery time.
How do I find a missing package that shows as delivered?
Check the Canada Post website to track your package. Your tracking number can be found on your shipping confirmation email. If you need support, contact the Customer Care Centre.
What if I am not home to collect my order?
If another adult who is 19 years or older is home, they may take delivery of your order after producing ID, or your package will be taken to a secure location and you will receive a notice with pick-up instructions.
Can I pick up my order from Canada Post?
If home delivery is not possible then Canada Post will leave instructions about how to retrieve your order from a secure location. You will need ID to show proof of address and prove you are 19 years or older.
What ID do I need to show to pick up my order?
You must be 19 years or older with two pieces of ID, one of which must either be issued by a government agency, or include your name, birth date, and picture. The second must include an imprint of your name, signature, and/or picture.
Can someone else pick up my order?
Yes, as long as they are 19 years or older and have ID with the same address as the one on your account.
I've been sent the wrong product, what do I do?
If you've been shipped the wrong product in error, it can be returned to any BC Cannabis Store or by connecting with our Customer Care Centre via our Contact page for an online return.
Can I have my purchase delivered to a PO box?
You may have your purchase delivered to a PO box. Canada Post will leave a slip notifying you to pick up your delivery at a post office or nearest depot. When claiming your delivery, remember to bring valid ID with you.
How do you ensure safe transportation of the products?
Products are packaged by licensed producers in a secure environment and are kept sealed throughout the distribution and sales process.
Is shipping discreet?
Yes, packaging is not branded in any way.
Can I exchange my product for a different one?
A product can only be returned if it’s defective, shipped in error, or recalled. Products eligible for return may be returned to a BC Cannabis Store or by connecting with our Customer Care Centre via our Contact page for an online return. For products shipped in error, only unopened products that have no signs of visible tampering may be returned with a receipt.
Can I return a product after I've opened the package?
No, with the exception of recalled or defective product. For those products shipped in error, only unopened products that have no signs of visible tampering may be returned with a receipt.
If I don't like the experience of the product, can I return it?
No.
If my product is defective, can I return it?
Products are considered "defective" and may be eligible for a refund if they are expired, mouldy, or damaged in transit. See 'How do I return a product?' for more information.
Cannabis seeds which are not feminized or are unsuccessfully cultivated will not be eligible for a return on the basis that they are “defective”.
How do I return a product?
All sales are considered final sale with the exception of the following three conditions:
• Defective products (expired, mouldy, damaged in transit)
• Products shipped in error (incorrect product shipped, over/under shipment, product not received)
• Recalled products
If a product has been found to be defective, shipped in error, or recalled, you may be eligible for a refund. Connect with our Customer Care Centre via our Contact page to request a return. You may also return it (with a receipt) to a BC Cannabis Stores retail store. Customers have 15 days to return accessories with a receipt.
How long do I have to return a cannabis product after I purchase it?
Cannabis products may only be returned if they are defective, shipped in error, or recalled. With the exception of recalls, returns must be requested within two business days of the delivery date.
How long do I have to return a cannabis accessory after I purchase it?
For purchases at BC Cannabis Stores or online, the return period is 15 days to return accessories with a receipt. The product must be unopened and in its original packaging.
How long does it take to receive a refund?
Upon receipt at the warehouse, products are assessed for refund eligibility. If deemed eligible, returns will be processed the following business day.
If I return a product, how will my payment be refunded?
A refund will be made to the original method of payment.
What will happen to my product after I return it?
If your product (accessory) is considered saleable and has not been tampered with, it may be restocked. All other returns (cannabis) will be safely destroyed.
How do I order online?
Use our intuitive platform to select your preferred products. Then navigate to the shopping cart to pay for your purchase.
Is there a minimum online order?
No, but shipping is a flat fee of $8.00 + applicable taxes regardless of order size.
Can I edit my order?
You can edit your order any time before payment. If you want to edit your order after payment, you must cancel your purchase completely and then replace your order. Connect with our Customer Care Centre via our Contact page.
Can I cancel my order?
To request an order cancellation you must contact the Customer Care Centre. The Customer Care Centre may or may not be able to cancel an order depending on the status of fulfillment. If the order is not cancellable, it will be shipped as ordered and you will be charged accordingly.
Why can I only order in 30 gram increments?
Legally, you are only allowed to possess up to 30 grams of dried cannabis or the equivalent in oils and capsules (in a public place). Our transaction limitations reflect this amount.
How will my purchase appear on my credit card statement?
Your purchase will appear as 'BCS Online' on your credit card statement.
Is using cannabis bad for my health?
There are many short- and long-term effects from using cannabis including physical dependency and cannabis use disorder that may result from frequent use.
What should I do if I feel ill after consuming a product?
If you have any health issues after using cannabis, you should consult your healthcare provider.
Can I overdose on cannabis?
Overuse of cannabis may lead to many short and long-term health effects, including psychotic episodes characterized by paranoia, delusions or hallucinations.
Can I become dependent on cannabis?
Continued, frequent use can lead to a physical dependency and cannabis use disorder. You may be at a higher risk if you have a family history of mental illness or other types of mental disorders. If you or someone you know is worried about cannabis use, consult your doctor.
What are the risks of using cannabis if I'm pregnant or breastfeeding?
THC and CBD can be passed to a fetus or newborn through blood or breast milk. Cannabis use during pregnancy has been linked to lower birth weights and developmental effects in newborns. Since there is no known safe amount of cannabis to use during pregnancy or breastfeeding, the safest approach is to not use cannabis.
Will cannabis interact with my medication?
Combining cannabis with other medications can increase the overall effects. This could increase the risk of injury or harm, particularly with activities like driving. For more information on the interactions between cannabis and medications, consult your healthcare provider.
What is the store experience like?
You will be greeted at the entrance and asked to verify your age by presenting two pieces of ID. Once you step further inside our warm and welcoming store, you will be greeted by trained cannabis consultants who are on-hand to help you find your way and answer any questions you may have.
Can I smell the product before I buy it?
Yes, sniff jars will be available to give customers the opportunity to view the dried flower and smell aromas as part of the purchasing experience.
Can I touch the product before I buy it?
No, only cannabis consultants are permitted to handle the dried flower products to preserve the fresh quality of the cannabis.
Can I reserve a product online before I buy it in store?
No, but all store products are available for purchase via the website.
What if the product I want is not available in store?
Visit our website to see if it is in stock online. All products featured in store (and more) are available for purchase via the website.
When is a store opening in my neighbourhood?
Please check our store locations page.
How can I pay for my order online?
Payment can be made via credit cards including Visa, prepaid Visa, Visa Debit, Mastercard, prepaid Mastercard, Debit Mastercard, and American Express.
How can I pay for my order in-store?
Credit cards (Visa, MasterCard, American Express), debit cards and cash are accepted at BC Cannabis Stores.
Can I pay with debit?
Debit can be used in-store but online payments are currently by credit card only.
Can I pay with PayPal?
No, PayPal is not currently available as a payment method.
Will I be able to pay with Apple Pay?
No, Apple Pay is not currently available as a payment method.
Can I pay for my online order when I pick it up?
No, payment must be paid at the time of ordering.
Can someone else pay for my order?
Yes, as long as the order is shipped within BC. ID showing that the person is 19 years or older is required at the time of pick-up or delivery.
Are taxes included in my order? What are they?
Cannabis duty is added by the licensed producers and GST and PST are added at the point of checkout.
Is there an exemption for cannabis purchased on First Nations land by First Nations individuals?
Yes, First Nations individuals are generally exempt from provincial sales tax (PST) when they purchase goods or services on First Nations land. However, to qualify for the exemption the goods purchased must be for the personal use of the First Nations individual.
To provide the exemption, you must following the documentation procedures located in Bulletin PST 314, Exemptions for First Nations.
Is there an exemption if the cannabis is purchased off First Nations land and delivered to First Nations individuals on First Nations land?
Yes, the cannabis (i.e., good) is exempt if it is purchased by a First Nations individual and title to the cannabis passes on First Nations land. However, the goods must be delivered by the seller or by a common carrier under contract with the seller, and the seller must retain ownership and responsibility for the goods until they are delivered to the First Nations individual on First Nations land.
If you are located off First Nations land, and you deliver goods to First Nations individuals to show why you did not charge PST you must keep evidence that:
the goods were shipped or delivered to First Nations land (e.g. bills of lading, shipping invoices or similar documentation), and title to the goods did not pass to the First Nations individual until the goods were located on First Nations land (e.g. the sales contract or invoice states the sale is made F.O.B. First Nations land).
If we are unable to provide exemptions, can the First Nations individual apply for a refund of PST paid?
Yes, if you as a First Nations individual paid PST in circumstances in which you were eligible for an exemption, you may be eligible for a refund from us.
To apply for a refund, you must complete an Application for Refund – General (FIN 355) and provide the supporting documentation listed in the instructions to the form. With each refund application, you must provide the following information and documentation.
- Name
- Address
- Band name and number / band registration number
- Photocopy of both sides of your Certificate of Indian Status card.
- Sales invoices showing the amount of PST paid.
- Proof that the purchase or lease met the requirements of exemption. For example, if you are a First Nations individual and paid PST on goods purchased for personal use, you need to provide proof that title to the goods passed on reserve land.
For additional information, please see page 11 of Bulletin PST 400, PST Refunds.
More information on British Columbia’s PST, including registration, and collecting and remitting the PST, can be found in a series of PST Bulletins and Notices, and the Small Business Guide to PST. The Forms Page contains exemptions certificates and forms related to registration, applying for a refund, and self-assessing the PST.
Is there a GST exemption or rebate for First Nations individuals?
Generally, First Nations individuals pay tax on goods and services on the same basis as other people in Canada. The exception to this rule is when the purchase is made on (or delivered to) First Nations Land. In that case, the purchaser may be eligible for a GST exemption or rebate. For more information on GST exemptions and rebates, please visit https://www.canada.ca/en/revenue-agency/services/tax/businesses/topics/gst-hst-businesses/gst-hst-indigenous-peoples.html.
Where can I share my feedback?
Feedback can be shared via email or through the web form on our Contact page.
Does BC Cannabis Stores have a loyalty program?
No, at this time there is not a loyalty program for regular customers.
Who can I speak with if I have questions about my product?
In-store, please speak with one of our trained cannabis consultants. Alternatively, visit our Contact page to connect with someone in our Customer Care Centre.
How can I learn more about cannabis?
BC Cannabis Stores is committed to educating our customers about the products on our shelves. Read our in-store panels or visit our Learn blog for more information about cannabis and safe use.
Which is the best browser to use with this website?
This website is compatible with the two most recent versions of Google Chrome, Mozilla Firefox, Apple Safari, Microsoft Edge, Opera, Apple Safari for iOS and Google Chrome for Android.
Why can't I create an account?
Currently, only guest check out is available.