Guide:
Are magic mushrooms legal in Canada?
The Short Answer?
No
Are you going to get arrested for magic mushrooms.
Also no.
The long answer:
First, as a disclaimer, we should clarify that we recommend you seek legal advice from a lawyer, not from this article.
As the world of psychedelics gains momentum for its potential therapeutic benefits, many individuals are curious about the legal status of magic mushrooms in Canada. This evolving landscape has captured the attention of those seeking natural alternatives for mental health and personal growth. In this article, we delve into the current legal status of magic mushrooms in Canada and explore the potential for changes in the future.
From the government of Canada perspective, all drugs are controlled legally through the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act (CDSA). Psilocybin is listed as a Schedule III controlled substance. Psilocybin is the hallucinogenic alkaloid, or in other words, the active ingredient in magic mushrooms. Possession, sale and production of psilocybin is illegal unless an exemption is given by Health Canada.
One could stop there and clearly say that magic mushrooms are illegal, but that’s not the complete picture.
One could stop there and clearly say that magic mushrooms are illegal, but that’s not the complete picture.
The Shift Towards Legalization
There is a growing movement across Canada to change the course for Magic Mushrooms. Even the government of Canada website says “There is increasing interest in the potential therapeutic uses of psilocybin.”. Since 2020, companies such as Numinus are growing legal magic mushrooms under license from Health Canada.
In August 2020, an exemption was granted to four terminally ill patients by the Canadian Minister of Health, allowing them access to psilocybin-assisted therapy. This marked a significant milestone in acknowledging the potential therapeutic benefits of psilocybin in a clinical setting.
In another example, you can legally buy magic mushroom spores and grow kits. This is legal as the psilocybin is not present until late in the growing cycle.
In Vancouver, the city council has decided not to enforce the laws surrounding magic mushrooms to instead focus their policing efforts elsewhere. They are allowing magic mushroom dispensaries in the same way cannabis dispensaries existed before legalization. As councillor Pete Fry said “We’re in a serious overdose crisis where we’ve heard people describe this as a medicine … research is ongoing to look at this as a drug therapy treatment for drug addiction,” he said. (source). In fact, the city has gone further than that and has “asked the federal government to exempt the city from part of the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act” (source). They aren’t the only ones. Montreal’s city council also voted to support decriminalization. NDP Leader Jagmeet Singh has come out and said, “I would call for the immediate decriminalization of all personal possession offences when it comes to drugs. Period.” (source)
Maybe one of the biggest signs of change is the fact that even the police themselves support decriminalization. (Source)
As you can see, big changes are happening across Canada and many believe those changes will happen soon.
The Path to Legalization: What Might Change?
The future of magic mushrooms’ legal status in Canada remains uncertain, but several factors are contributing to the ongoing discussions:
Scientific Research: Continued scientific studies on the therapeutic benefits of psilocybin could influence regulatory agencies to reevaluate its status.
Public Opinion: As public perception shifts towards recognizing the potential benefits of magic mushrooms, pressure may mount for policy changes.
Decriminalization Efforts: Local initiatives seeking to decriminalize possession may pave the way for larger-scale policy changes at the federal level.
Global Precedents: Countries like the United States and parts of Europe have decriminalized or legalized psilocybin in various capacities, potentially setting a precedent for Canada.
Conclusion:
The legal status of magic mushrooms in Canada is a complex topic that reflects the evolving understanding of psychedelics and their therapeutic potential. While current regulations deem magic mushrooms illegal, the landscape is gradually shifting towards a more open discussion about their benefits. With ongoing research, changing public opinion, and the success of initiatives in other countries, the possibility of changes in Canada’s approach to magic mushrooms is on the horizon. It’s essential to stay informed and engaged as the conversation unfolds, shaping the future of psychedelics in our society.
