Tobacco Laws in Canada: What You Need to Know

Canada has some of the most comprehensive tobacco regulations in the world. Here's what every consumer should understand.

Legal Smoking Age

The legal age varies by province:

18 Years Old

• Alberta
• Manitoba
• Quebec
• Saskatchewan

19 Years Old

• British Columbia
• New Brunswick
• Newfoundland and Labrador
• Northwest Territories
• Nova Scotia
• Nunavut
• Ontario
• Prince Edward Island
• Yukon

Tobacco Taxes

Canada imposes significant taxes on tobacco:

• Federal excise tax: Applied to all tobacco products
• Provincial taxes: Vary by province
• GST/HST: Applied on top of other taxes
• Result: Among the highest tobacco prices globally

Exemptions

• First Nations reserves may have different tax structures
• Duty-free purchases for international travellers (limited quantities)

Advertising Restrictions

Canadian law strictly limits tobacco advertising:

• No advertising in media accessible to youth
• No sponsorship of events or activities
• No promotional items (branded merchandise)
• Plain packaging requirements since 2019
• Health warnings must cover 75% of packaging

Where You Can Smoke

Smoking restrictions vary by province but generally prohibit smoking:

• Inside public buildings
• Within 9 metres of building entrances
• In vehicles with minors present
• On restaurant and bar patios (most provinces)
• In parks and playgrounds (many municipalities)

Online Tobacco Sales

• Legal when sold by licensed retailers
• Age verification required
• Provincial regulations may apply
• Delivery restrictions in some areas

Penalties

Violations can result in:

• Fines for selling to minors
• Business licence revocation
• Criminal charges for smuggling
• Seizure of illegal products

Your Rights as a Consumer

• Purchase from licensed retailers
• Expect age verification
• Report illegal sales
• Access cessation resources

Understanding Canadian tobacco laws helps you make informed, legal purchasing decisions.