The Substance Law Blog, published by Substance Law, focuses on regulatory and licensing issues related to controlled substances and related industries in Canada, particularly Ontario. It covers topics such as cannabis retail licensing, alcohol manufacturer representative licensing, and the regulatory framework for cryptocurrency exchanges. The blog also addresses legal considerations for emerging markets like psilocybin mushrooms and practical business guidance, including starting a restaurant in Toronto. It provides information on compliance with provincial and federal laws, licensing requirements, and the roles of regulatory bodies such as the Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario and FINTRAC.
Understanding the Terminology: Terms of Use vs Terms of Service vs Terms and Conditions
The Semantic Nuance of Legal Agreements
When you’re setting up a digital presence or offering a service in Canada, you’ll encounter various legal documents that govern…
Basics of Joint Venture Legal Structures and Characteristics
Overview of Joint Venture Structuring
When two or more parties decide to collaborate on a specific project or business endeavour in Canada, they often form a joint venture (JV). The way this…
Basics of Obtaining Share Ownership of a Company in Canada
Defining A Shareholder And Share Ownership
A shareholder is essentially an owner of a corporation. When you buy shares, you’re acquiring a piece of that company. These shares represent your…
The Purpose Of A Legal Consultation And What is Discussed
A legal consultation serves as your initial meeting with a legal professional to discuss a specific legal matter. It’s a critical first step, allowing both you and the lawyer to…
Ontario continues to expand and modernize its retail alcohol marketplace.
Effective July 1, 2026, amendments to Ontario Regulation 746/21 under the Liquor Licence and Control Act, 2019 (LLCA) now permit licensed grocery stores and convenience stores to transfer liquor inventory…
New CFIA Requirements for SFCR Applicants
Mandatory Completion for Specific Licence Actions
Completion of the Food Safety Supplemental Information (FSSI) Questionnaire is a regulatory requirement for certain licensing actions under Canadian law. If you are applying for, renewing, or amending a…
Share Issuance Basics for Companies in Canada
Issuing shares is a fundamental step in the life of a Canadian corporation, representing the sale of ownership stakes. When your corporation issues shares, it’s essentially selling pieces of itself to investors in…
Canadian Business Licence and Zoning Requirements For Catering Companies
Mandatory Municipal Business Licences
Starting any business in Ontario, including a catering operation, typically requires a municipal business licence. This licence is issued by the specific municipality where your business will…
On June 27, 2026, the federal government published the proposed Consumer-Driven Banking Regulations in the Canada Gazette, Part I, marking another major milestone in Canada’s transition toward an open banking framework. The regulations are open for public consultation until August…
A subtle but important amendment to Ontario’s alcohol retail rules came into force on June 25, 2026.
Ontario Regulation 203/26 amended the “financial relationships” provisions that apply to grocery stores and convenience stores licensed to sell beverage alcohol.
Previously, the…
