Applying to Open a Cannabis Retail Store

In order to operate a cannabis retail store in Ontario, you must apply for both a Retail Operator Licence (as an individual) and a Retail Store Authorization (for each retail location you intend to open.)

For information about the application process and other regulatory and legal aspects of operating a cannabis retail store, consult the Cannabis Retail Regulation Guide.

 

How to apply online for a:

For information on the allocation process for cannabis stores on First Nations Reserves, see Stores on First Nations Reserves.

All applications must be completed online via iAGCO.  There are no paper or pdf application forms available.

 

Written Submissions regarding prospective Cannabis Retail Stores (Public Notice Process)

Written submissions about an application can only be made to the Registrar during the 15-day public notice period by a resident of the municipality in which the proposed store is located, or the municipality representing the area in which the proposed store is located. If the municipality is a lower-tier municipality, then the upper-tier municipality of which it forms a part may also make a submission. 

  1. Use iAGCO to search for all applications currently undergoing public notice.
  2. Click the “file objection/submission” button associated with the application you wish to comment on.

The Registrar will consider written submissions as to why the proposed store is not in the public interest as set out in the regulation made under the Cannabis Licence Act, 2018. The following are matters of public interest that can be considered by the Registrar:

  • Protecting public health and safety;
  • Protecting youth and restricting their access to cannabis;
  • Preventing illicit activities in relation to cannabis.

 

Find a Cannabis Retail Store in your Area

This table and accompanying map shows the status of all Cannabis Retail Store Authorizations in Ontario. Stores shown as “Authorized to Open” have passed their pre-opening inspection from the AGCO and may open for business. The actual opening date of each store may depend on other factors and is at the discretion of each owner/operator.

Line of Business: 
Cannabis

Help us improve the AGCO website

Complete a short survey