Starting May 1, adults in Manitoba will be allowed to legally grow cannabis plants at home for personal use. This change comes after the Manitoba government officially lifted the long-standing ban on homegrown cannabis in April 2024. The legislation was proclaimed into law last week, and the new rules will be enforced by the Liquor, Gaming and Cannabis Authority of Manitoba (LGCA).
Under the updated law, Manitobans aged 19 and older can grow up to four cannabis plants per household. This limit applies to the entire residence, not per person—so even if multiple adults live in one home, they can only grow a maximum of four plants collectively.
There are also strict rules about how and where the plants can be grown. According to the LGCA, cannabis plants must be grown indoors, either in a locked room or in a secure container. These measures are in place to prevent youth from accessing the plants. The law emphasizes that responsible storage and cultivation are essential parts of personal cannabis use.
However, the right to grow cannabis at home doesn’t apply universally to all living situations. The LGCA warns that tenants living in rental units or condominiums should check with their landlords or condo boards before growing cannabis, as individual properties may still impose restrictions or outright bans.
Additionally, Manitobans must purchase their cannabis seeds or starter materials from licensed retailers. This requirement helps ensure that all cannabis grown in homes is sourced legally and meets safety standards.
The move makes Manitoba one of the majority of provinces that allow home cultivation of cannabis. Quebec now remains the only province in Canada where it is still illegal to grow cannabis at home for personal use.
The decision to lift the ban was welcomed by cannabis advocates who have long pushed for the right to grow plants at home, viewing it as a natural extension of legal recreational use. Supporters say it allows users more control over their supply and reduces reliance on commercial sources.
As of May 1, Manitobans can enjoy a new level of cannabis freedom—so long as they stay within the rules and respect property-specific limitations.
