Delivery Regulations in Ontario

Designed to assist Retail Store Authorization (RSA) holders and their employees, this guide provides up-to-date information on navigating the legal requirements for cannabis delivery and curbside pick-up in Ontario.

Based on AGCO content updated on July 1, 2024, this guide helps Ontario retailers ensure compliance with provincial regulatory standards. While there are similarities in cannabis sales regulations across Canada, each province has its own specific rules. Therefore, it is crucial for all cannabis retailers to stay informed of the latest provincial regulations to ensure smooth operation and legal compliance in their day-to-day activities.

Delivery FAQ's (ON):

Can retail stores offer cannabis delivery and curbside pick-up?

• Yes, retail stores authorized by AGCO can offer both cannabis delivery and curbside pick-up. However, cannabis retail stores are not permitted to operate entirely or predominantly as delivery businesses. All deliveries must be completed by a Retail Store Authorization (RSA) holder or their employees, and third-party delivery services are not allowed.
   

What items can be sold or delivered to customers?

• Cannabis
• Cannabis accessories
• Shopping bags
• Items directly related to cannabis or its use that are not ingestible food or drinks

What are the requirements for delivering cannabis in Ontario?

• Deliveries must be made directly to residences or private places, like hotel rooms, within Ontario.
• Only RSA holders or their employees can make deliveries.
• The recipient must be at least 19 years old, and ID verification is required for anyone who appears under 25.
• Deliveries should occur only during the hours the retail store is open to the public. However, stores located in premises that require closure to the public (e.g., within malls) can complete deliveries between 9:00 AM and 11:00 PM, provided the landlord is not an interested party in the CRSA holder.
• Delivery orders must be placed with a specific store location and must originate and be fulfilled from that same store with products stored on-premises.
• Cannabis cannot be removed from the store for delivery unless an order has been received. If the delivery is not completed, the cannabis must be returned to the same store on the same day and remain there until the next day when delivery is attempted again.
    

What should be done if a cannabis delivery cannot be completed?

• If cannabis is taken out for delivery but is not delivered, it must be returned to the same store on the same day. It cannot be re-delivered until the next day.
  
  

Are there specific rules for delivering to First Nations communities?

• Yes, deliveries to First Nations communities are allowed unless the community has explicitly restricted delivery. Restrictions take effect 30 days after a band council resolution is received by the AGCO.

Curbside Pick-Up FAQ's (ON)

What are the guidelines for curbside pick-up at cannabis retail stores?

• Curbside pick-up transactions can only be completed by a CRSA holder or employee and must be completed in an area adjacent to the store that is captured by the store’s surveillance system.

Online Platforms

What should be included on websites and apps for cannabis retail stores?

• Websites and apps must confirm that users are at least 19 years old, display the official Ontario cannabis retail seal, and include the RSA information, such as the authorization number, holder’s name, store’s operating name, and address.

DISCLAIMER: The content in this article is for informational purposes only. Cannabis Retail Regulations in Ontario can change, and it is essential for retail store authorization holders and their employees to stay informed of the latest legal requirements. We advise you to consult the Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario (AGCO) directly for the most current information and regulations. Use your own discretion and consult with legal counsel when conducting retail services to ensure full compliance with all applicable laws and regulations.