As the regulator for private cannabis retail in Ontario, the AGCO has the authority to license, regulate and enforce the sale of recreational cannabis in privately run stores in Ontario.
All owners and operators of cannabis retail stores are subject to the provincial Cannabis Licence Act, 2018 and its regulations, and the AGCO’s Registrar Standards. These are intended to ensure that only responsible and lawful businesses and people receive licenses to own and operate cannabis stores. They aim to minimize the public risk of cannabis store operations and allow for ongoing monitoring of the operation of these businesses.
This portal provides information and resources to help municipalities better understand the regulatory framework that applies to the sale of recreational cannabis in private stores in Ontario.