The legalization of cannabis in Canada has taken effect as of Wednesday, October 17, 2018. As the country adjusts to the new realities of this change, the University of Alberta community is asked to keep the following points in mind concerning cannabis at the university.
Cannabis and the law
Anyone that chooses to possess or use cannabis on the university’s campuses is expected to understand and adhere to all applicable laws and regulations. University of Alberta Peace Officers and the Edmonton Police Service have the authority, under various pieces of legislation, to deal with anyone suspected of violating cannabis laws.
Age
It is illegal for anyone under the age of 18 to possess or use cannabis in Alberta, including on University of Alberta campuses.
Possession
Individuals aged 18 and over can legally carry up to 30 grams of cannabis in Alberta, including on University of Alberta campuses.
Consumption
The university has four designated locations on North Campus where smoking and vaping of legal cannabis products is permitted. All students, staff and visitors who choose to smoke or vape cannabis must do so in the designated areas.
The City of Edmonton also permits smoking and vaping of cannabis in some public places in accordance with City bylaws.
At this time, the smoking and vaping of cannabis products is not permitted at South Campus, Augustana Campus, or on university property at Enterprise Square. Campus Saint-Jean is currently evaluating whether to permit smoking and vaping of cannabis products on university property. During this evaluation process, smoking and vaping at these locations is not permitted.
Smoking and vaping inside residence buildings is not permitted in any of the U of A’s residences. Growing cannabis plants in any university building (other than in approved research) is also not permitted.
For at least the next year, smoking and vaping at university events, including student group events, is not permitted.
Sales, advertising, branding and sponsorship of cannabis products on university campuses or at university events is not permitted.
Medical use
Medical cannabis users are permitted to use the designated consumption areas shown on the above map to smoke or vape cannabis products on North Campus.
Students requiring further specialized accommodation are asked to contact Accessibility Accessibility Services at 780–492–3381.
Staff seeking specialized accommodations are required to follow normal medical accommodation request protocols. Staff are asked to contact Organizational Development, Equity and Health at 780–492- 0636.
Impairment
As with the use of any substance, it is the responsibility of the user to manage their use of cannabis. It is never acceptable to be impaired at work, regardless of the substance.
Please be aware that the University of Alberta has legal and disciplinary mechanisms to respond to instances of unsafe or disruptive behaviour.
Respect for non users
Many non users are sensitive to the odours associated with cannabis smoke and vapour. The university asks users to be respectful of those who do not use cannabis.
Cannabis and health and safety
Cannabis is not a benign substance. It is the responsibility of users to make themselves aware of the risks. You can learn more about the cannabis and the health implications associated with its use by visiting the Health and Wellness Supports webpage.
For more information about cannabis at the University of Alberta, including FAQs, the Cannabis Working Group, resources, and more, visit the Cannabis at the University of Alberta website.Cannabis at the University of Alberta website.