Last month, the Province published the third iteration of its BC Cannabis Use Survey, which measures shifts in British Columbians’ behaviours and perspectives related to cannabis use. The results of this survey will support the Province’s efforts to monitor the impacts of cannabis legalization, and potential changes to the provincial framework.
The survey, which was conducted in early 2025, includes perspectives from 23,590 individuals, and covers various issues such as:
- Types of cannabis produces being used
- Reasons for using cannabis
- Usage among different socio-demographic groups
- Procurement of cannabis by individuals
- Co-use with alcohol and other substances
- Cannabis-impaired driving
- Other experiences while using cannabis
The survey examines regional variations in cannabis use and where individuals use cannabis, which, among other findings, may be of interest to local governments. Key findings include:
- Slightly fewer adults 19+ (31%) reported using cannabis than in 2021, when the second iteration was completed.
- More cannabis users reported using cannabis for non-medical purposes than before.
- The use of cannabis edibles and vape cartridges/pens has increased, while fewer individuals reported using dried flower.
- More individuals reported procuring cannabis from legal outlets (72%) than in 2021 (55%). Based on follow-up questions, it was determined that at least 31% of individuals may also be purchasing cannabis products from illicit sources.
- One-fifth of cannabis users reported that, over the past year, they had driven a vehicle within two hours of inhaling or within four hours of ingesting cannabis.
Local governments with questions or comments in response to the BC Cannabis Use Survey may contact the BC Cannabis Secretariat.