Legal updates, regulatory guidance and practical perspectives for businesses operating in complex industries.
Can Foreign Natural Health Product Companies Sell to Canadians Without an NPN? Many foreign natural health product (NHP) companies are interested in entering the Canadian market but are discouraged by the regulatory burden associated with obtaining a Natural Product Number (NPN), obtaining a Natural Health Product Site Licence, and complying with Canada’s comprehensive Natural Health…
Licence Requirements to Import, Manufacture, Package or Store Natural Health Products in Canada Purpose and Scope of a Site Licence A Site Licence is a mandatory authorization from Health Canada, specifically the Natural and Non-prescription Health Products Directorate (NNHPD), for any facility involved in the handling of Natural Health Products (NHPs) within Canada. This licence…
Understanding the Natural Product Number (NPN) Framework Definition and Purpose of a Natural Product Number (NPN) A Natural Product Number, or NPN, is a unique eight-digit identifier assigned by Health Canada. This number signifies that a natural health product (NHP) has successfully passed Health Canada’s pre-market assessment for safety, efficacy, and quality. Essentially, an NPN confirms…
And Can You Start A Peptides Company in Canada? Whether you are an individual wondering whether peptides are legal in Canada or a business considering entering the Canadian peptide industry, the answer depends heavily on the activity involved. For individuals, the Food and Drugs Act generally regulates activities such as manufacturing, importing, packaging, labelling, advertising,…
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 DMT, including its possession, production, and distribution, are illegal unless specifically authorized by the Minister…
The Health Canada Cosmetic Notification Form (CNF) serves as an essential mechanism for regulatory compliance and the assurance of product safety within Canada’s cosmetic sector. Submission of the CNF is a mandatory post-market obligation for any cosmetic product intended for sale in Canada. The responsible party—the manufacturer, importer, or the person responsible for the sale…
Canada’s Consolidated Regulations For Mind-Altering Drugs under the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act Canada’s new Controlled Substances Regulations (CSR) under the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act are set to come into force on October 1, 2026. These regulations aim to consolidate and modernize the existing framework governing controlled substances, replacing several older sets of rules….
Legal Status of Magic Mushrooms (Psilocybin) in Canada In Canada, the general legal standing of magic mushrooms, which contain the compound psilocybin, is quite clear: they are classified as controlled substances. This means that producing, selling, or simply possessing them is against the law under federal legislation, specifically the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act. Think…
Fortified and Supplemented Foods in Canada: Know the Difference Canada regulates two distinct ways that vitamins, minerals, and other ingredients get added to food: fortification and supplementation. Although both involve adding nutrients to a food product, Health Canada treats them as legally separate regimes with different rules, different permitted foods, and different label requirements. Getting…
FAQ
Have questions about Substance Law? Here are some of the most common queries to help you get started.
Timelines depend on the licence type, how complete the application is and the regulator’s current processing times. We prepare the application and supporting documents so the review runs smoothly, and we give you a realistic timeline at the start.
It depends on the services you provide. Money services businesses register with FINTRAC, and payment service providers performing retail payment activities register with the Bank of Canada under the RPAA. Some businesses need both; we review your model and tell you which apply.
In many cases, yes. A transfer is approved by the provincial regulator and depends on the licence conditions, the premises and the buyer’s eligibility. We handle the filings and coordinate with the other side of the deal.
It depends on the product, its claims and how it is sold. Some products are regulated as drugs or natural health products by Health Canada. We review the product and the sales model and explain what is permitted.
Yes. We advise clients across Canada on federal and provincial regulatory matters, and we coordinate with local counsel where a provincial rule requires it.
We always strive to offer our clients transparent, flexible and reasonable pricing and payment options. Where the scope of the engagement permits, we try to offer our clients innovative, fixed-fee pricing options instead of traditional hourly rates, and payment through EFT, Wire, E-transfer, and Credit/Debit Card.
Service areas / Jurisdiction
We advise clients across Ontario and throughout Canada on regulatory, licensing and compliance matters in cannabis, psychedelics and other regulated industries.
Cannabis retail, consumption and related licensing
Zoning, land use and local approvals
Compliance and enforcement matters
Health Canada, Canada-wide regulatory matters
CRA, excise, FINTRAC and related requirements
Psychedelics, hemp, wellness and emerging sectors
Our Offices
Contact
You want to move fast, and you're looking for a law firm equipped to handle your challenges. That's where we fit in.
Takes about 60 seconds · No commitment
By submitting this form, you agree to Substance Law Privacy Policy and Terms of Use.
Canada's Law Firm For Regulated Substances
