Over the last decade, Calgary and the entirety of Canada have been subject to a lot of changes regarding cigarettes and tobacco products. This has resulted in a lot of confusion and concerns amongst smoke enthusiasts, and questions like, “Can I smoke here?” or “Is it safe to smoke at this location,” have become common.
Now, whether you are a seasoned native tobacco smoker or just starting your journey by trying out a high-quality native cigarette in Calgary, you should be familiar with the ever-changing rules and regulations of tobacco and smoking in the C-Town.
What are Smoking Laws Aiming For?
Before jumping into the rules and regulations of tobacco products in Calgary, it is important to understand the goals and aims behind these regulations.
The primary reason to enforce such strict laws is to limit the usage of tobacco and related products among teenagers. Authorities realized that teenagers, especially in Calgary, had relatively easy access to cigarettes in 2011, and since then, laws have been updated to change that.
While these were somewhat effective in curbing teenagers from smoking cigarettes, authorities did not foresee a significant increase in e-cigarettes and vapes. In fact, it was observed that nearly 30% of teens were vaping in the time period of 2018-19, hence the need for continual updates in smoking laws.
What are New Smoking Laws?
Seeing the enormous ill effects on teens and second-hand smoke, The Tobacco, Smoking and Vaping Reduction Act (TSVRA) and regulation was introduced and came into force on July 31, 2021.
Explaining TSVRA Rules and Enforcement
According to the latest TSVRA and regulation, the following are the rules that apply to both tobacco as well as vaping products:
- A user must produce a government-issued photo identification to purchase, possess, and consume tobacco and vaping products.
- Convenience stores, gas stations, and any other vendor must limit the advertising, display, and promotion of said products.
- Users are prohibited from smoking at the following places:
- Hospitals and healthcare facilities, schools, and childcare properties
- Playgrounds, public parks, and playing fields
- Skateboard and bicycle parks
- Zoos and outdoor theatres
- Public outdoor pools and splash pads
- Restrictive selling of tobacco and vaping products in the following areas:
- Health facilities
- Public post-secondary institutions
- Stores where pharmacies are located
- Vending machines or temporary facilities
Fines Upon Failing to Exercise TSVRA Rules and Enforcement
Upon failing to adhere to the mentioned rules, both users and retailers can be charged; however, here, we will strictly focus on users:
- $100: Minors consuming or possessing cigarettes or vapes
- $250: Vaping in a prohibited place (mentioned above) and handing or buying a vaping product for a minor,
NOTE: Fines can be increased, and individuals can also be charged with additional offenses based on specific scenarios. |
New Prints on Cigarettes
Given that tobacco use causes approximately 46,000 Canadian deaths each year, the federal government has demanded tobacco companies include new warning messages and images on cigarettes and other tobacco products.
Although the official statement was released back in April, users can expect to see the new warnings on cigarettes by February 2025. Also, note that these warnings will be implemented only for king-size cigarettes.
The warning messages will be written in both official languages, i.e., English and French. These are:
- Poison in every puff
- Cigarettes damage your organs
- Cigarettes cause cancer
- Tobacco smoke harms children
- Cigarettes cause impotence
- Cigarettes cause leukemia
In addition to these messages, you will also include 14 warning pictures.
Where To Smoke Cigarettes in Calgary Safely?
With increasing restrictions on tobacco smoking, it is understandable to ask this question. Don’t worry. There are still a lot of places where you can enjoy a high-quality native smoke other than your home.
As long as you’re not smoking in the mentioned places and are 5 meters (previously 3 meters) away from any windows, doorways, and air intake, you can safely smoke any cigarette or vaping product.
These include:
- Anywhere on sidewalks and pathways
- Trails not part of public parks
- Smoking rooms and lounges
- Vape stores (enclosed spaces)
Is it Safe to Buy Tobacco Online in Calgary?
Yes, as long as you are of legal age, you can easily buy tobacco products online in Calgary.
Where Can I Safely Buy Tobacco Online in Calgary?
While there are a lot of online vendors that sell tobacco products online, Top Smokes Canada offers high-quality native smokes and vape products. Additionally, we provide country-wide shipping, and all of our products are sourced from First Nation suppliers.
Can I Buy Native Cigarettes in Bulk in Calgary?
Yes! With Top Smokes Canada, you can easily purchase cartons or packs of native cigarettes in bulk.
Where Can I Buy Cheap Smokes in Calgary?
You can get high-quality cheap cigarettes from us. A pack of our high-quality native cigarettes starts at $45, providing unmatched value.
Will Smoking Laws Change in the Future?
As much as we’d like to say no, smoking laws are likely to change in the distant future. As mentioned at the beginning, authorities are continually changing the laws to reduce the number of teenage smokers and secondhand smoke.
While some may argue that present laws are already strict, depending on the situation and future smoking scenario, these laws are subject to change. We will keep you updated.
With that said, you can still enjoy a premium smoking experience within your home in Calgary with Top Smokes Canada.