3rd Floor, Ministerial Complex, Sir Eric Matthew Gairy Botanical Gardens

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Grenada’s Cannabis Decriminalization Reform introduces a controlled and phased approach to cannabis regulation. The reform focuses on public health, responsible use, youth protection, rehabilitation, and future economic opportunity while maintaining restrictions on public consumption, illegal trafficking, and access by minors.

GENERAL OVERVIEW

What does the new cannabis reform do?

The reform decriminalises limited possession and personal cultivation of cannabis for adults, introduces public safeguards, protects minors through rehabilitation measures, and establishes the legal foundation for a future regulated cannabis industry.

Is cannabis fully legal in Grenada?

No. Cannabis remains regulated. Many activities, including unauthorised sale, trafficking, public smoking, and supply to minors, remain illegal.

Why is Grenada introducing this reform now?

The reform reflects evolving global approaches to cannabis policy, public health considerations, social justice concerns, and future economic opportunities through regulated development.

Who does the reform apply to?

The decriminalisation provisions apply only to adults aged 21 and over. Children (17 and under) and young persons (18 to 21) remain subject to protective and rehabilitative measures.

Is the law already in force?

The law was passed when assented to by the Governor-General in January 2026, then officially published in the Government Gazette. Formal commencement of the law begins when the regulations and guidelines for implementing the law are officially announced, or Orders are published by the Minister. Until then, existing cannabis laws remain enforceable.

POSSESSION & PERSONAL USE

How much cannabis can an adult legally possess?

Adults aged 21 and over may possess:

  • Up to 56 grams of cannabis

  • Up to 15 grams of cannabis resin

Possession above these limits may still attract trafficking and criminal penalties.

What are “trafficable quantities”?

The law defines:

  • 71 grams of cannabis

  • 30 grams of cannabis resin

as “trafficable quantities” for enforcement purposes.

Refer to the Second Schedule, Drug Abuse (Prevention and Control) Act, Trafficable Quantities of Specified Controlled Drugs. (Click Here).

Can adults grow cannabis at home?

Yes. Adults may cultivate following registration:

  • Up to four cannabis plants per registered household.

Each apartment or separate household unit is treated independently.

The registration system and procedures are being developed and will be announced by the relevant authorities.

Do landlords have rights regarding cultivation?

Yes. Property owners and landlords may prohibit cannabis cultivation on their premises.

Can cannabis seeds be imported into Grenada?

No. Seed importation is not currently permitted.

MEDICAL & THERAPEUTIC USE

Can cannabis be used for medical purposes?

Yes. The reform allows cannabis use for:

  • Medicinal

  • Therapeutic

  • Scientific purposes

subject to regulation, licensing, and medical oversight.

Under limited and regulated conditions for persons with qualifying medical conditions and proper medical recommendations. The guidelines and regulations for this Order are being drafted.

“Licensing for the Supply of Medicinal Cannabis will be required for various activities related to the medicinal cannabis industry, including cultivation, transportation, extraction, manufacturing, dispensing, sale, research, and development. Referenced guide: (Barbados. Cannabis Licensing Application Handbook 2019)” [Policy Statement for the Decriminalization of Cannabis for Medical, Religious, Private Use, and Hemp Agro-Processing in Grenada P.18]

What medical benefits are associated with cannabis?

Cannabis may assist with:

  • Pain management
  • Certain chronic illnesses
  • Symptom relief through oils, tinctures, creams, and other regulated products

Reference: Top 7 Health Benefits of Cannabis Backed by Scientific Research in 2025 | Psychreg

Are edibles currently allowed?

No. Current policy does not support cannabis edibles.

Is smoking cannabis medically recommended?

No. Smoking is generally discouraged because combustion may reduce therapeutic benefits and pose health risks.

PUBLIC USE & RESTRICTIONS

Can cannabis be smoked in public?

No. Public smoking remains illegal and liable to a $300 fine.

What is the penalty for public smoking?
  • Fine: $300
  • No criminal record
  • Failure to pay may result in further legal action.
Where is cannabis use prohibited?

Cannabis use is prohibited:

  • In public places

  • In workplaces

  • On public transport

  • Near schools

  • In sensitive public areas

  • Within 5 metres of entrances, windows, and ventilation systems unless specifically authorised by Ministerial Order.

Refer to the Ninth Schedule, Drug Abuse (Prevention and Control) Act No 1 2026 (Page 25). Special Provisions with Respect to Cannabis.

Can cannabis be used near schools?

No. Use on or near school premises during operating hours remains a serious offence.

What penalties apply near schools?

Violations near schools may result in:

  • Heavy fines

  • Possible imprisonment upon conviction

Refer to the Amendment of Fifth Schedule to the Principal Act (Page 23).

RELIGIOUS USE

Does the reform recognize Rastafari use?

Yes. The law permits regulated sacramental use by adherents of the Rastafari faith.

What religious activities are permitted?

Approved Rastafari communities may engage in:

  • Possession according to the limits prescribed in the Eight Schedule, Drug Abuse (Prevention and Control) Act

  • Use at their registered places of worship

Regulations and guidelines for cultivation are being drafted.

How will religious use be regulated?

Authorities will maintain an official registry of:

  • Designated lands

  • Approved places of worship

  • Approved religious events

YOUTH & FAMILY PROTECTION

Who is considered a minor?
  • Child: under 18
  • Young person: 18–20
How are minors protected under the reform and what happens if a child is found with cannabis?

Children under 18:

  • Will not be arrested or criminally charged

  • Will not receive a criminal record

  • Must be referred to the Child Protection Authority

  • May receive counselling, education, or rehabilitation services

What happens if a young person (18–20) is found with cannabis?

Young persons:

  • Will not face criminal charges for small quantities

  • May be referred to counselling or education programmes

Are these protections optional?

No. The rehabilitative approach is mandatory under the law.

What role do parents and guardians play?

Parents and guardians play a critical role in:

  • Supervision

  • Prevention

  • Education

  • Discouraging underage access and use

We are all responsible as a society. No youth can fall by the wayside.

HEALTH & PUBLIC SAFETY

Are there health concerns associated with cannabis?

Yes. Concerns include:

  • Mental health risks

  • Impacts on developing brains

  • Impaired judgment and concentration

particularly among individuals under the age of 25.

Is cannabis addictive?

Cannabis can become habit-forming for some people. It does not usually cause physical addiction in the same way as opioids or nicotine, but that does not mean it is risk-free.

For most people, the risk of addiction is lower than with many other substances. However, frequent or heavy use can lead to dependence. Some people may feel they need cannabis to relax, sleep, cope with stress, or function normally.

This is why responsible use matters. Limiting use, avoiding daily use, and being aware of changes in behaviour can help reduce the risk of developing a cannabis use disorder.

Are there concerns during pregnancy?

Yes. Cannabis exposure during pregnancy remains a major public health concern. “Substance use (including cannabis, opioids, tobacco, and alcohol) in pregnancy has been associated with adverse outcomes such as spontaneous preterm birth, low birth weight, and developmental delay.”

Cannabis Use During Pregnancy and Lactation | ACOG

Will public education campaigns be introduced?

Yes. Expanded education efforts are expected to address:

  • THC and CBD

  • Brain development

  • Safe and legal use

  • Public health impacts

Is driving under the influence permitted?

No. Existing impaired-driving and road traffic laws remain fully enforceable.

What about workplaces?

Employers retain authority to:

  • Enforce workplace safety rules

  • Prohibit impairment at work

  • Maintain occupational health and safety standards

LAW ENFORCEMENT & JUSTICE

Will people still face penalties?

Yes. Certain offences may result in:

  • Tickets

  • Fines

  • Confiscation

  • Criminal prosecution for serious violations

Can cannabis be confiscated?

Yes. Authorities may seize cannabis in cases involving:

  • Minors

  • Public violations

  • Unauthorised activity

  • Trafficking and Criminal offences

Will police continue enforcement?

Yes. The Royal Grenada Police Force will continue enforcing the law, using practical and discretionary enforcement where appropriate.

Can past convictions be cleared?

Yes. The reform allows:

  • Expungement of qualifying minor convictions

  • Discontinuation of certain pending minor cases

  • Kindly keep up to date on announcements for Rehabilitation of Offenders Board Application Process.

Which offences may qualify for expungement?

Eligible offences may include:

  • Possession within decriminalised limits

  • Up to four cannabis plants

  • Cannabis paraphernalia offences

subject to legal review and applicable procedures.

CANNABIS INDUSTRY & ECONOMY

Can cannabis now be sold freely?
No. Cannabis sale remains illegal.
Does the reform immediately create a cannabis industry?

No. This is Phase One of reform which will be fully implemented when the guidelines and regulations are published.

Future legislation will address cannabis industry specific activity, including but not limited to:

  • Licensing

  • Cultivation

  • Compliance

  • Monitoring

  • Industry regulation

  • Enforcement

Will the reform create economic opportunities?

Yes. Future regulated development may create opportunities in:

  • Agriculture

  • Medicinal products

  • Research and Development

  • Education

  • Tourism

  • Small business participation

Who is intended to benefit from the future industry?

The policy direction aims to ensure Grenadians benefit first through equitable participation and economic inclusion.

What happens next?

Next steps may include:

  • Development of a cannabis industry (hybrid approach for medical cannabis, hemp and agro processing)

  • Drafting a National Cannabis Policy Framework is in progress and is due to be complete by July 31, 2026.

  • Drafting of cannabis industry legislation

  • Expanded public education campaigns

  • Additional regulations and operational guidelines

  • Ongoing review and refinement of the law