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.
Legislative Framework for Psychedelic Medicine Under the Special Access Program
Understanding the Special Access Program’s Role
The Special Access Program (SAP), administered by Health Canada, is the primary existing mechanism through which Canadian physicians can request access to drugs not…
How To Register With Payments Canada, Who is Eligible, What Are the Benefits, And What Are the Costs?
Defining Payments Canada Registration
Registering with Payments Canada is a formal process that signifies a financial institution or payment service provider’s adherence…
Legal Risks and Regulatory Framework for Peptide Businesses in Canada
Businesses considering entering the peptide industry in Canada should understand that peptides — particularly injectable peptides intended for human use — are highly regulated under Canadian law.
Many peptides marketed…
Learn About DMT and its Legal Status in Canada
In Canada, the substance N,N-Dimethyltryptamine, commonly known as DMT, is classified as a controlled substance under the federal Controlled Drugs and Substances Act (CDSA). This classification means that most activities involving…
On May 15, 2026, Health Canada published a Notice of Intent in the Canada Gazette, Part I, launching a public consultation on potential amendments to the Industrial Hemp Regulations (“IHR”).
The consultation signals that the federal government may be preparing…
A corporate minute book is one of the most important legal records maintained by a corporation in Canada. Unfortunately, many businesses discover that their corporate records are incomplete, outdated, or missing critical documents only when facing financing, investment, regulatory review,…
Regulatory Compliance Services for Cannabis Businesses Across Canada
Substance Law provides cannabis compliance services to licensed producers, processors, distributors, retailers, investors, and cannabis brands operating across Canada. We assist businesses in navigating the complex regulatory framework governing cannabis production, processing,…
Get Information From the Federal Government of Canada Under the Access to Information Act
If you are looking to obtain records from the Canadian government, filing an ATIP request may allow you to access documents, correspondence, reports, emails, and other…
The Shift in Cannabis Store Hours: What You Need to Know
Why the Change? Understanding the AGCO’s Decision
The Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario (AGCO) has authorized a significant adjustment to the operating hours for licensed cannabis retail stores.…
Your Obligations After A Data Breach – PIPEDA, RROSH, and Reporting
What Constitutes a Data Breach?
In Canada, a data breach, often referred to as a “breach of security safeguards,” occurs when personal information is lost, stolen, or accessed by…
