Updated decision
On May 19, 2021 the Council received a report and presentation proposing allowing cannabis retail stores within Georgina. This prohibition was lifted at this time.
Original decision
On Jan. 16, 2019, Georgina Council voted to opt out of allowing retail cannabis stores in the community. In a recorded vote, it was 4-3 in favour of opting out.
The Federal Government legalized recreational cannabis use across Canada on Oct. 17, 2018.
Ontario’s Ministry of the Attorney General is currently drafting regulations for private retail sales, and the province will release their plan for cannabis retail models on April 1, 2019. Ontario cannabis stores will be privately owned and operated and will be licensed by the Alcohol Gaming Commission of Ontario.
Regardless of Council’s decision, cannabis use will still occur in the community. The province has prohibited smoking or vaping cannabis anywhere that smoking tobacco is not allowed by provincial law - including enclosed public places, workplaces, and near playgrounds, schools or daycares.
Documents
Council reports
Presentation - May 19, 2021
General cannabis information report - Dec. 12, 2018
Additional resources
Additional resources
More information about cannabis legislation:
York Region: york.ca/cannabisinfo
Government of Ontario: ontario.ca/cannabis
Government of Canada: canada.ca/cannabis
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I legally buy cannabis in Georgina?
Yes, as of May 19, 2021 you are able to purchase cannabis at cannabis retail stores in Georgina.
Will Georgina allow cannabis retail locations?
On May 19, 2021, Georgina Town Council voted to allow retail cannabis locations in Georgina.
Can I smoke cannabis at Georgina parks, beaches and public places?
Ontario has new rules governing where it is appropriate to use recreational cannabis.
Information on places where recreational cannabis can and cannot be used, can be found on the Government of Ontario’s website ontario.ca/cannabis
Who should I contact if I want to report what I believe is inappropriate cannabis use?
Enforcement for non-criminal use such as public consumption and violations to the Smoke-Free Ontario Act falls within the jurisdiction of York Region Public Health.
York Regional Police are responsible for enforcing impaired driving, cultivation limits, possession limits and transportation of cannabis in vehicles.
For more information contact:
York Region: 1-877-464-9675
York Regional Police non-emergency line: 1-866-876-5423