Canada’s vaping laws blend federal standards and regional rules, making them diverse and sometimes confusing. Regulations cover who can buy e-liquids that contain nicotine, how strong they can be, where usage is permitted, and how products must be packaged and promoted. Understanding these differences is crucial whether you’re a consumer, retailer, or just curious about the landscape.
What are the vaping laws in Canada?
Canada carefully regulates the sale, packaging, labeling, and promotion of e-liquids and devices containing nicotine to safeguard public health and restrict access by underage individuals. Federal laws set nationwide standards—such as nicotine limits and packaging requirements—while provinces and territories establish additional rules about the minimum legal age to purchase, where these products can be used, and restrictions on flavors and advertising. Together, these layers of regulation create a framework that varies across the country but aims to balance adult access with youth protection.
Legal Age to Purchase E-Liquids Containing Nicotine in Canada
Across Canada, the minimum age to legally purchase e-liquids and related products is generally 18 or 19 years old, depending on the province or territory. While federal law sets the baseline at 18, many regions have raised the age to 19, and Prince Edward Island leads with a minimum age of 21. These age restrictions are designed to prevent youth from accessing nicotine-containing products, helping to reduce early addiction risks. Retailers are required to verify proof of age before completing any sales, with strict penalties in place for non-compliance.
Where Can You Use E-Liquids in Canada?
While federal law primarily governs product standards, rules about where you can use e-liquids vary by province and municipality. Common restrictions include bans on usage in indoor public spaces such as workplaces, restaurants, bars, schools, and public transit. Many regions also extend prohibitions to outdoor areas where children and the public gather—like parks, playgrounds, sports fields, and near building entrances or air intakes. Additionally, vaping in vehicles carrying minors is often prohibited. These location-specific rules aim to protect non-users from exposure to vapor and maintain clean air environments.
Nicotine Strength Limits in E-Liquids Across Canada
Federally, the maximum nicotine concentration allowed in e-liquids is capped at 20 mg/mL (2%). This limit is set to reduce potential health risks and prevent excessive nicotine intake. Some provinces strictly adhere to this federal standard, while others may not have additional caps, but none permit concentrations above this federal limit in general retail sales. Consumers should always check product labels to confirm nicotine content, which must be clearly displayed in milligrams per milliliter on packaging under Canadian regulations.
Packaging and Labelling Regulations for E-Liquids
Canadian regulations require all nicotine-containing e-liquids and related products to follow strict packaging and labeling rules designed to ensure safety and inform consumers. Packaging must be child-resistant to prevent accidental ingestion by children. Labels must display the nicotine concentration in mg/mL, list all ingredients including flavorings (labeled as “flavour / arôme”), and carry a health warning about nicotine’s addictive nature. These standards help consumers make informed choices and help reduce risks associated with accidental exposure.
Promotion and Advertising Rules for E-Liquid Products
To protect youth and public health, Canadian law places strict limits on how e-liquids and related products can be promoted. Advertising must include clear health warnings about nicotine addiction. Marketing that targets or appeals to young people is banned, including lifestyle ads, endorsements by influencers, and sponsorships that glamorize use. Retail displays and promotions are regulated to avoid attracting minors, with prohibitions on colorful or cartoonish designs and limits on in-store visibility. These rules help prevent the normalization of nicotine use among youth and maintain responsible marketing practices.
Canadian Vaping Laws and Regulations by Province and Territory
With the rising popularity of vaping in Canada, laws were introduced state to state to protect public health, prevent youth access, and regulate the sale and use of vaping products. These regulations set rules on minimum age, where vaping is allowed, the sale of flavoured products, nicotine limits, and retailer responsibilities. As vaping continues to gain popularity, understanding these laws is essential for responsible use and compliance across the country.
British Columbia
In British Columbia, the legal age to buy or vape is 19. Vaping is banned in public buildings, workplaces, near doorways, windows, air intakes, and on school property across all cities, including Vancouver, Victoria, Surrey, Burnaby, Richmond, Kelowna, Kamloops, Abbotsford, Nanaimo, and Prince George. Flavoured e-liquids can only be sold in vape stores. Nicotine content is limited to 20 mg/mL. Retailers must follow strict packaging, labeling, and promotion rules, with fines for violations.
limited to 20 mg/mL. Retailers must follow strict packaging, labeling, and promotion rules, with fines for violations.
How old do you have to be to buy or vape in British Columbia?
The legal age to buy or use vapour products in British Columbia is 19 years old; anyone under 19 cannot legally purchase or vape.
Where is vaping banned in British Columbia?
Vaping is banned in public buildings, workplaces, near doorways, windows, air intakes, and on school property in British Columbia.
Are flavoured vapes legal in British Columbia?
Flavoured e-liquids can only be sold in vape stores; flavour-only products are banned in general retail in British Columbia.
Is 50 mg of nicotine legal in British Columbia?
No, the maximum nicotine concentration allowed in British Columbia is 20 mg/mL.
Are there rules for vape store sales and promotions in British Columbia?
Retailers must display health warnings, list ingredients and nicotine content, hide products from minors, and follow plain packaging rules in British Columbia.
Can adults sample vaping products in-store in British Columbia?
Adults may sample e-substances in-store under limited conditions, including only two customers at a time and measures to prevent secondhand exposure.
What happens if someone breaks vaping laws in British Columbia?
Violators may face fines or administrative penalties enforced by regional health authorities in British Columbia.
Source: https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/health/keeping-bc-healthy-safe/tobacco-vapour
Ontario
In Ontario, the legal age to buy or vape is 19. Vaping is banned in enclosed workplaces, public spaces, schools, playgrounds, sports fields, hospital grounds, vehicles with minors, and other restricted areas across cities such as Toronto, Ottawa, Mississauga, Hamilton, London, Kitchener, Windsor, and Kingston. Flavoured products are limited to specialty vape stores and licensed cannabis retailers. Nicotine strength over 20 mg/mL is only allowed in specialty vape stores. Retailers must follow rules on displays, sampling, signage, and sales practices, with strict penalties for violations.
How old do you have to be to buy or vape in Ontario?
The legal vaping age in Ontario is 19 years old; anyone under 19 cannot legally purchase or use vapour products.
Can vapour products be displayed in convenience stores in Ontario?
No. Vapour products must be hidden from public view unless sold in a registered specialty vape store or licensed cannabis retail store.
Where is vaping prohibited in Ontario?
Vaping is banned in enclosed workplaces, enclosed public places, schools, playgrounds, sports fields, recreational facilities, hospital grounds, within 9 m of hospital entrances, and in vehicles with anyone under 16 years old.
Are flavoured vapes legal in Ontario?
Flavoured vapour products are only legal in specialty vape stores or licensed cannabis retail stores, with exceptions for menthol, mint, and tobacco flavours.
Is 50 mg of nicotine legal in Ontario?
No, vapour products with more than 20 mg/mL nicotine concentration may only be sold in registered specialty vape stores.
Can adults sample vapour products in Ontario stores?
Yes, but only in specialty vape stores under conditions such as no more than two people sampling at the same time and the use of disposable mouthpieces unless using personal devices.
What are the penalties for breaking Ontario vaping laws?
Penalties include fines, automatic sales prohibitions, and possible 6 to 12-month bans from selling tobacco or vapour products for repeat offences.
Source: https://www.ontario.ca/page/rules-selling-tobacco-and-vapour-products
Quebec
In Quebec, the legal age to buy or vape is 18. Vaping is banned in enclosed public spaces, workplaces, patios, schools, daycare centres, playgrounds, bus shelters, health facilities, and within 9 metres of entrances, windows, or air intakes across cities such as Montreal, Quebec City, Laval, Gatineau, Longueuil, Sherbrooke, Saguenay, Trois-Rivières, and Lévis. Flavoured vape products are banned except for tobacco flavour. Nicotine strength is capped at 20 mg/mL, pods are limited to 2 mL, and refill bottles are limited to 30 mL. Sales are allowed only in enclosed retail outlets, and minors cannot enter vape stores. Retailers must follow strict rules on packaging, advertising, and product displays, with heavy fines for violations.
What is the legal age to vape or buy a vape in Quebec?
You must be 18 or older to purchase or use vaping products in Quebec. Selling to anyone under 18 is illegal.
Where is vaping banned in Quebec?
- Vaping is banned in all places where smoking is prohibited, including:
- Enclosed public places and workplaces
- Schools, daycare centres, and playgrounds
- Restaurant and bar terraces
- Health and social service facilities
- Public transit shelters and vehicles
- Common areas in residential buildings
- Within 9 metres of doors, windows, or air intakes
Are flavoured vapes legal in Quebec?
No. All flavours except tobacco are banned. Products can only be labelled as “tobacco” or “no flavour.”
What are the nicotine limits for vapes in Quebec?
The maximum nicotine concentration allowed is 20 mg/mL.
Are there size limits for vape pods and bottles in Quebec?
Yes. Pods or tanks can hold a maximum of 2 mL, while refill bottles can hold up to 30 mL.
Can you buy vapes online in Quebec?
No. Vape sales are allowed only in permanently enclosed retail outlets.
Can minors enter vape shops in Quebec?
No. Specialized vape shops cannot allow anyone under 18 to enter.
What are the packaging and labelling rules for vapes in Quebec?
All products must show nicotine strength (mg/mL) and liquid volume. No designs or wording that appeals to minors are allowed.
What are the display and advertising rules in Quebec?
General retailers must keep vape products hidden. Specialized vape stores can display products but cannot admit minors. Advertising is heavily restricted.
What are the penalties for breaking vaping laws in Quebec?
Fines vary depending on the violation, including:
- Selling to a minor: $2,500 – $125,000 for businesses
- Employees selling to a minor: $500 – $1,500
- Breaking vaping bans or display rules: up to $50,000 for operators
Alberta
In Alberta, including cities such as Calgary, Edmonton, Red Deer, Lethbridge, and Fort McMurray, the legal age to buy or vape is 18. Vaping is banned in schools, hospitals, playgrounds, and other child-focused or health-related public spaces. Retailers must hide vaping and tobacco products from public view, follow strict signage requirements, and avoid promotional displays. There is no province-wide ban on flavoured e-liquids, but marketing and promotion are heavily restricted. Alberta does not set a provincial nicotine cap, meaning strengths above 20 mg/mL (such as 50 mg/mL) are not specifically prohibited. Fines range from $100 for minor possession to $750 for retailer violations, with enforcement handled by the Tobacco and Vaping Enforcement Team.
What is the minimum legal age to buy or use vapes in Alberta?
Your minimum age for vaping must be 18 years or older, and present valid government-issued photo identification to legally buy, possess, or use vaping products in Alberta.
Where is vaping prohibited in Alberta?
The province bans vaping in:
- Schools, hospitals, and child-care facilities
- Playgrounds, sports fields, and skate parks
- Zoos, outdoor swimming pools, and splash pads
- Theatres, post-secondary institutions, and health facilities
Inside convenience stores, gas stations, and other retail locations where products are sold or stored
Are flavored vapes legal in Alberta?
Yes. There’s no provincial ban on flavored e-liquids; however, regulations prevent retailers from displaying or promoting them in most public retail environments.
Is 50 mg/mL nicotine strength legal in Alberta?
Yes, Alberta has no maximum nicotine concentration limit under provincial law, so higher-strength products like 50 mg/mL are not banned.
What are the packaging, display, and advertising rules for retailers?
Retailers must:
- Keep vaping products hidden from public view
- Post clear “No Sales to Minors” and “No Smoking or Vaping” signs
- Avoid all promotional displays and advertising inside stores
Can customers try vaping products in-store?
Current provincial rules do not provide allowances or guidelines for in-store sampling.
What are the penalties for breaking vaping laws in Alberta?
- $100 fine — Minor possession/use of vaping products
- $250 fine — Vaping in a restricted location or giving/selling to a minor
- $500–$750 fine — Retailer sales to minors, ID check failures, or promotional/display violations
- $500 fine — Missing required signage
Who enforces vaping laws in Alberta?
The Tobacco and Vaping Enforcement Team conducts inspections, educates retailers, and issues penalties. They began operations in the latter half of 2021.
Source: https://www.alberta.ca/reducing-smoking-and-vaping-rules-and-enforcement
Manitoba
In Manitoba, including cities such as Winnipeg, Brandon, Steinbach, Thompson, and Portage la Prairie, the minimum legal age to buy or vape is 18. Vaping is banned in all enclosed public areas, indoor workplaces, public vehicles, and group living facilities, following the same rules as smoking. Proprietors must ensure compliance by posting signage, removing promotional displays, and banning vending machines for vaping or tobacco products. Sampling of vapour products is permitted only within fully enclosed vapour product shops. Municipalities may enact stricter bylaws, and supplying vaping products to minors is prohibited, with penalties for violations.
What is the minimum age to buy or vape in Manitoba?
You must be 18 years or older to legally purchase or use vaping products in Manitoba.
Where is vaping banned in Manitoba?
Vaping is prohibited in:
- Enclosed public places
- Indoor workplaces
- Group living facilities
- Public vehicles and vehicles used in employment with multiple employees
Proprietors of these spaces must ensure compliance.
Are there exceptions for designated vaping areas?
Yes. Fully enclosed rooms—sealed floor-to-ceiling with separate ventilation—may be designated for e-cigarette use in:
- Group living facilities
- Hotels, motels, inns, or bed-and-breakfasts
- Vapour product shops
Are flavoured vapes restricted in Manitoba?
No province-wide ban exists on flavored e-liquids; no specific flavor-based restrictions are outlined.
Can you vape cannabis in public in Manitoba?
Use of non-medical cannabis vaping is banned in most outdoor public places—such as streets, parks, patios, school grounds, and hospital grounds.
Medical cannabis users have limited exceptions but are still restricted near entrances, playgrounds, and similar areas.
Can cities in Manitoba make stricter vaping rules?
Yes. Municipalities can pass bylaws that are more restrictive than the provincial law, and local rules take priority in those areas.
Source: https://web2.gov.mb.ca/laws/statutes/archive/s150(2021-05-19)e.php?df=2019-06-03
Saskatchewan
In Saskatchewan, including cities such as Regina, Saskatoon, Prince Albert, Moose Jaw, and Swift Current, you must be 19 years old to legally buy or vape (as of February 1, 2024). Vaping is banned in enclosed public places, within 3 metres of doorways, windows, or air intakes, on school grounds, and in vehicles with individuals under 16. The sale, display, and advertising of vapour products are strictly regulated, particularly near areas accessible to young people. Flavoured products (beyond tobacco and mint/menthol) may only be sold in adult-only specialty vape shops. Fines and enforcement are handled by Tobacco Enforcement Officers and local police.
How old do you have to be to buy or use vapes in Saskatchewan?
You must be 19 years or older to legally purchase or use tobacco and vapour products in Saskatchewan, following the law change that took effect on February 1, 2024.
Where is vaping not allowed in Saskatchewan?
Vaping is banned in the following places:
- Enclosed public places (e.g., malls, offices, transit areas)
- Within 3 metres of doorways, windows, or air intakes of public buildings
- School grounds
- Vehicles when passengers under 16 are present
These rules are enforced to protect public health from second-hand vapour exposure.
Are there limits on where vape products can be sold or promoted?
Yes—Saskatchewan prohibits:
- Display or advertising of vapour products in areas accessible to youth
- Sales in places like amusement parks, arcades, theatres, and pharmacies (unless a separate exterior entrance exists)
- Specialty vape shops are allowed to sell certain flavours (like mint/menthol) that mainstream retailers cannot.
Can retailers hire minors to work with vape products?
Yes. The legislation does not prohibit hiring people under 19 to sell or handle tobacco or vapour products.
Who enforces these vaping laws in Saskatchewan?
Tobacco Enforcement Officers enforce the regulations concerning public vaping restrictions and the sale/display of products. For vehicle violations—like vaping around under-16 passengers—enforcement is handled by the RCMP and municipal police.
Nova Scotia
In Nova Scotia, including cities such as Halifax, Sydney, Dartmouth, Truro, and New Glasgow, the minimum legal age to buy or vape is 19. A province-wide ban on the sale of all flavoured e-cigarettes and liquids took effect on April 1, 2020. Vaping is regulated under the Smoke-free Places Act and Tobacco Access Act, which prohibit vaping in public spaces, control product visibility and advertising, require retailer permits, and allow taxation based on nicotine content. Enforcement of these regulations is carried out by the Department of Environment.
How old do you have to be to vape in Nova Scotia?
You must be at least 19 years old to legally purchase or use vaping and e-cigarette products in Nova Scotia.
Is there a flavour ban on vaping products in Nova Scotia?
Yes. As of April 1, 2020, the sale of all flavoured e-cigarettes and liquids is banned across Nova Scotia.
Where is vaping prohibited in Nova Scotia?
Under the Smoke-free Places Act, vaping is prohibited in all enclosed public spaces, indoor workplaces, licensed patios, schools, libraries, healthcare facilities, theatres, recreational venues, and similar indoor public areas.
What rules apply to retail display, advertising, and sales of vaping products?
The Tobacco Access Act mandates that vendors:
- Must not sell to minors (those under 19),
- Keep products out of public view unless the store exclusively sells vaping/tobacco, and minors are prohibited from entry.
- They are banned from point-of-sale promotions,
- Cannot display signage or advertising outside the store.
Do retailers need a permit to sell vaping products in Nova Scotia?
Yes. Retailers must obtain a Vaping Products Retail Vendor’s Permit, which is valid for 3 years, to legally sell vaping products.
Is there taxation on vaping products in Nova Scotia?
Yes. A vaping products tax applies—currently $0.50 per millilitre (or gram) for vaping substances, and 20% of MSRP for devices or vaping packages, whichever is higher.
Who enforces vaping laws in Nova Scotia?
The Department of Environment enforces both the Smoke-free Places Act and the Tobacco Access Act, handling compliance, complaints, and infractions.
Source: https://novascotia.ca/vaping/#:~:text=As+of+1+April+2020,the+Smoke%2Dfree+Places+Act
New Brunswick
In New Brunswick, including cities such as Fredericton, Moncton, Saint John, Dieppe, and Miramichi, the legal age to buy or vape is 19. The Smoke-Free Places Act prohibits vaping in enclosed public places, indoor workplaces, school grounds, and vehicles with individuals under 16 present. The sale of flavoured vaping products, other than tobacco, is banned. Retailers are required to obtain a license to sell vaping products. Enforcement is carried out by peace officers and inspectors, with fines for violations.
How old do you have to be to buy or use vapes in New Brunswick?
You must be 19 years old to legally purchase or use vaping products in New Brunswick.
Where is vaping prohibited in New Brunswick?
Vaping is prohibited in:
- Enclosed public places
- Indoor workplaces
- School grounds
- Vehicles with individuals under 16 present
- Patios where food or alcohol is served and within 3 meters of the patio boundary
- 9 meters from doorways, windows, and air intakes of public buildings
- Outdoor playgrounds and within 20 meters of their perimeters
- Outdoor sports and recreational areas, and within 20 meters of their perimeters
- Public walking trails and within 9 meters of the trail
- Provincial parks (except in designated smoking areas and on occupied campsites)
- Grounds of regional health authorities (hospitals, health clinics, etc.)
Are flavoured vapes legal in New Brunswick?
No, the sale of flavoured vaping products, other than tobacco, is banned in New Brunswick.
Do retailers need a license to sell vaping products in New Brunswick?
Yes, retailers must obtain a Vaping Products Retail Vendor’s Permit to legally sell vaping products.
Newfoundland and Labrador
In Newfoundland and Labrador, including cities such as St. John’s, Mount Pearl, Corner Brook, Gander, and Grand Falls-Windsor, the legal age to buy or vape is 19. The Tobacco and Vapour Products Control Act prohibits the sale of vaping products wherever tobacco sales are banned. Vaping is generally permitted wherever smoking is allowed under provincial law, though municipal bylaws may impose additional restrictions. Many municipalities restrict vaping in public places such as parks, beaches, trails, and transit facilities, and vaping is also prohibited in indoor public places, including restaurants and workplaces. The sale of flavoured vaping products is banned, and e-liquids are available in nicotine concentrations up to 20 mg/mL. Retailers must obtain a license to sell vaping products, with enforcement carried out by local authorities.
How old do you have to be to buy or use vapes in Newfoundland and Labrador?
You must be at least 19 years old to legally purchase or use vaping products in Newfoundland and Labrador.
Where is vaping prohibited in Newfoundland and Labrador?
Vaping is prohibited in indoor public places, including restaurants, bars, and workplaces. Additionally, many municipalities have bylaws restricting vaping in public outdoor spaces such as parks, beaches, trails, and transit facilities.
Are flavoured vapes legal in Newfoundland and Labrador?
No, the sale of flavoured vaping products is banned in Newfoundland and Labrador. Only unflavoured or tobacco-flavoured products are permitted.
What are the nicotine concentration limits for e-liquids?
E-liquids sold in Newfoundland and Labrador are available in nicotine concentrations up to 20 mg/mL.
Do retailers need a license to sell vaping products?
Yes, retailers must obtain a license to legally sell vaping products in Newfoundland and Labrador.
Source: https://assembly.nl.ca/legislation/sr/statutes/t04-1.htm
Prince Edward Island
In Prince Edward Island, including cities such as Charlottetown, Summerside, Stratford, Cornwall, and Montague, the legal age to buy or vape is 21. The Tobacco and Electronic Smoking Device Sales and Access Act prohibits the sale of vaping products except in tobacconist shops, which are age-restricted establishments. The sale of flavoured vaping products, other than tobacco and unflavoured, is banned. Vaping is prohibited in indoor public places, workplaces, and in vehicles with individuals under 19 present. Retailers must obtain a license to sell vaping products, with enforcement carried out by local authorities.
How old do you have to be to buy or use vapes in Prince Edward Island?
You must be at least 21 years old to legally purchase or use vaping products in Prince Edward Island.
Where can you buy vaping products in Prince Edward Island?
Vaping products can only be purchased in tobacconist shops, which are age-restricted establishments.
Are flavoured vapes legal in Prince Edward Island?
No, the sale of flavoured vaping products, other than tobacco and unflavoured, is banned in Prince Edward Island.
Where is vaping prohibited in Prince Edward Island?
Vaping is prohibited in:
- Indoor public places
- Workplaces
- Vehicles with individuals under 19 present
This includes areas such as restaurants, bars, and offices.
Do retailers need a license to sell vaping products?
Yes, retailers must obtain a license to legally sell vaping products in Prince Edward Island.
Northwest Territories
In the Northwest Territories, including communities such as Yellowknife, Hay River, Inuvik, Fort Smith, and Behchokò, the legal age to buy or vape is 19. The Tobacco and Vapour Products Control Act prohibits the sale of vaping products wherever tobacco sales are banned. Vaping is generally permitted wherever smoking is allowed under territorial law; however, municipal bylaws may impose additional restrictions. Many municipalities restrict vaping in public places such as parks, beaches, trails, and transit facilities, and vaping is also prohibited in indoor public places, including restaurants and workplaces. The sale of flavoured vaping products is banned, and e-liquids are available in nicotine concentrations up to 20 mg/mL. Retailers must obtain a license to sell vaping products, with enforcement carried out by local authorities.
How old do you have to be to buy or use vapes in the Northwest Territories?
You must be at least 19 years old to legally purchase or use vaping products in the Northwest Territories.
Where is vaping prohibited in the Northwest Territories?
Vaping is prohibited in indoor public places, including restaurants, bars, and workplaces. Additionally, many municipalities have bylaws restricting vaping in public outdoor spaces such as parks, beaches, trails, and transit facilities.
Are flavoured vapes legal in the Northwest Territories?
No, the sale of flavoured vaping products is banned in the Northwest Territories. Only unflavoured or tobacco-flavoured products are permitted.
What are the nicotine concentration limits for e-liquids?
E-liquids sold in the Northwest Territories are available in nicotine concentrations up to 20 mg/mL.
Do retailers need a license to sell vaping products?
Yes, retailers must obtain a license to legally sell vaping products in the Northwest Territories.
Yukon
In Yukon, including communities such as Whitehorse, Dawson City, Watson Lake, Haines Junction, and Faro, the legal age to buy or vape is 19. The Tobacco and Vaping Products Control and Regulation Act, effective March 5, 2020, replaced the 2008 Smoke-Free Places Act and regulates the use, sale, display, and promotion of tobacco and vaping products in Yukon. The Act aims to protect Yukoners from the harmful effects of tobacco and vaping, prevent initiation among non-users—especially youth—and reduce the overall prevalence of tobacco and vaping product use.
How old do you have to be to buy or use vapes in Yukon?
You must be at least 19 years old to legally purchase or use vaping products in Yukon.
Where is vaping prohibited in Yukon?
Vaping is prohibited in:
- Indoor public places
- Workplaces
- Vehicles with individuals under 19 present
- Daycare, dayhome, or pre-school
- Elementary and secondary schools (including on school grounds or in a parked car on school grounds)
- Library, art gallery, or museum
- Health-care facility
- Cinema or theatre
- Video arcade, pool halls, billiards room, bingo halls
- Recreational facilities where the primary activity is physical recreation (e.g., bowling alley, fitness centre, gymnasium, pool, or ice rink)
- Multi-service centre, community centre or hall, arena, fire hall or church hall
- Meeting or conference room or hall
- Public transit
- Public outdoor spaces such as parks, playgrounds, and sports fields
- Near doorways, air intakes, and windows of places where smoking and vaping are not allowed
Are flavoured vapes legal in Yukon?
Yes, there are no restrictions on the sale of flavoured vaping products in Yukon.
What are the nicotine concentration limits for e-liquids in Yukon?
Yukon follows federal nicotine regulations, which limit e-liquids to 20 mg/mL.
Do retailers need a license to sell vaping products in Yukon?
Yes, retailers must obtain a license to legally sell vaping products in Yukon.
Source: https://yukon.ca/en/tvpcra#whats-new
Nunavut
In Nunavut, including communities such as Iqaluit, Rankin Inlet, Arviat, Cambridge Bay, and Pond Inlet, the legal age to buy or vape is 19. The Tobacco and Smoking Act, effective May 31, 2023, regulates the sale, use, and promotion of tobacco and smoking products, including vaping products. The Act is designed to protect Nunavummiut from second-hand smoke, prevent minors from accessing and using tobacco or vaping products, reduce the visibility of these products, and lower overall usage.
How old do you have to be to buy or use vapes in Nunavut?
You must be at least 19 years old to legally purchase or use vaping products in Nunavut.
Where is vaping prohibited in Nunavut?
Vaping is prohibited in:
- Indoor public places
- Workplaces
- Vehicles with individuals under 19 present
- Daycare, dayhome, or pre-school
- Elementary and secondary schools (including on school grounds or in a parked car on school grounds)
- Library, art gallery, or museum
- Health-care facility
- Cinema or theatre
- Video arcade, pool halls, billiards room, bingo halls
- Recreational facilities where the primary activity is physical recreation (e.g., bowling alley, fitness centre, gymnasium, pool, or ice rink)
- Multi-service centre, community centre or hall, arena, fire hall or church hall
- Meeting or conference room or hall
- Public transit
- Public outdoor spaces such as parks, playgrounds, and sports fields
- Near doorways, air intakes, and windows of places where smoking and vaping are not allowed
Are flavoured vapes legal in Nunavut?
Yes, there are no restrictions on the sale of flavoured vaping products in Nunavut.
What are the nicotine concentration limits for e-liquids in Nunavut?
E-liquids sold in Nunavut are available in nicotine concentrations up to 20 mg/mL, in line with federal regulations.
Do retailers need a license to sell vaping products in Nunavut?
Yes, retailers must obtain a license to legally sell vaping products in Nunavut.
Quick Comparison of Canadian Vaping Laws by Province and Territory
| Province/Territory | Legal Age to Purchase | Flavour Rules | Nicotine Limit | Purchase Restrictions |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| British Columbia | 19 | Flavours only in specialty vape shops | 20 mg/mL | Strict display & sampling limits |
| Ontario | 19 | Flavours only in licensed shops (some exemptions for mint/tobacco) | 20 mg/mL | Hidden displays, no online sales to minors |
| Quebec | 18 | Only tobacco flavour allowed | 20 mg/mL, pod size 2 mL, bottles 30 mL | No online sales; minors cannot enter vape shops |
| Alberta | 18 | Flavours allowed but tightly regulated in display/ads | 20 mg/mL federally (no extra provincial cap) | No sampling rules |
| Manitoba | 18 | No specific flavour ban | 20 mg/mL | Indoor bans, municipalities may add stricter bylaws |
| Saskatchewan | 19 | Only tobacco, mint, menthol flavours in regular stores | 20 mg/mL | Restricted near schools/vehicles with minors |
| Nova Scotia | 19 | All flavours banned (except tobacco) | 20 mg/mL | Retail license required, products hidden |
| New Brunswick | 19 | All flavours banned (except tobacco) | 20 mg/mL | Retail vendor permit required |
| Prince Edward Island | 21 | Only tobacco/unflavoured allowed | 20 mg/mL | Sold only in tobacconist shops |
| Newfoundland & Labrador | 19 | Flavours banned except tobacco | 20 mg/mL | Retail license required |
| Northwest Territories | 19 | Only tobacco/unflavoured allowed | 20 mg/mL | Local bylaws may add bans (e.g., parks, beaches) |
| Yukon | 19 | No flavour restrictions | 20 mg/mL | Retail license required |
| Nunavut | 19 | No flavour restrictions | 20 mg/mL | Retail license required |
Good Vaping Etiquette
Even in areas where vaping is allowed, practicing good etiquette is essential to ensure comfort and respect for others. Avoid vaping in personal spaces, small enclosed areas, at dining tables, or in crowded places where the vapor might bother others. Keep in mind that some people may have health concerns or simply dislike the smell. If you are unsure whether vaping is appropriate, always ask for permission first. Being mindful of your surroundings not only shows respect but also helps maintain a positive image of vaping in public spaces.
A Checklist for Respectful Use
- Know the local rules: Always follow laws and signage about where vaping is allowed or banned.
- Ask before vaping: Seek permission when vaping indoors or in personal spaces like homes, cars, or gatherings.
- Respect others’ space: Avoid vaping near people who may be uncomfortable, especially children, pregnant women, or those with respiratory issues.
- Avoid large clouds: Take small, discreet puffs instead of blowing big vapor clouds that could annoy or bother others.
- Don’t vape indoors unless allowed: Respect no-vaping policies in restaurants, public transport, workplaces, and similar venues.
- Blow vapor away from others: Never exhale vapor directly towards people.
- Avoid vaping around children and pets: Vape in well-ventilated areas away from vulnerable individuals.
- Dispose of waste properly: Throw used pods, cartridges, and device parts into bins, never litter.
- Be mindful in crowds: Vape away from congested places like queues or busy streets.
- Don’t pressure others: Respect that vaping is a personal choice and don’t encourage or pressure others to try it.
Safety Tips for Using E-Liquids and Vaping Devices
- Always buy from reputable sources: Use licensed retailers to ensure products meet safety and quality standards.
- Check product labels: Confirm nicotine content and ingredients before use.
- Handle devices carefully: Charge devices using manufacturer-approved chargers and supervise charging.
- Store e-liquids securely: Keep away from children and pets, in tightly sealed containers, and out of direct sunlight or extreme temperatures.
- Avoid modifying devices: Altering batteries or components can increase risk of malfunction or injury.
- Practice good hygiene: Clean mouthpieces regularly and avoid sharing devices to reduce infection risk.
- Know warning signs: Stop using immediately if the device overheats, leaks, or behaves unusually.
- Dispose responsibly: Recycle batteries and dispose of e-liquid containers according to local hazardous waste guidelines.
- Seek medical advice if needed: Contact healthcare providers if you experience adverse symptoms or accidental ingestion.
These safety habits help protect you and those around you while using e-liquids and vaping devices.
