Laws and regulations

Vapour products are regulated in the same way as tobacco products. The legal age to buy vapour products in BC is 19.

Just like tobacco products, vaping products cannot be used in public buildings and workplaces, near doorways or air intakes of public buildings, or on school property.

Regulatory changes

On November 14, 2019, the Minister of Health announced the intention to strengthen the current regulatory framework to address the rise in youth vaping. The Ministry of Health (the Ministry) proposed new regulations under the Tobacco and Vapour Products Control Act (TVPCA) and the Public Health Act (PHA), which are in effect as of July 20, 2020.

As part of the process to develop the regulatory framework, the Ministry sought comments on the proposed regulatory changes outlined in the Vapour Products Intentions Paper. Those interested were invited to submit comments on the proposed changes from December 18th, 2019 through January 24, 2020.

A summary of stakeholder and public feedback is outlined in the What We Heard Report (PDF, 619KB)

What’s new?

As of July 20, 2020, new and amended regulations were enacted under the Public Health Act and the Tobacco and Vapour Products Control Act. For more information about what the new regulations require and restrict, please visit Tobacco and Vapour Products.

What about cannabis\THC products?

Edibles, concentrates and topicals were legalized on October 17, 2019, with products starting to be available in mid-December. Health Canada requires companies to provide 60-days notice before new products are taken to market, so this accounts for the delay in products being available for purchase.

Items can be purchased from legal outlets including the BC Cannabis Store Online.

For more information on the products that are allowed, visit Health Canada.