Updated Cannabis-Related Content Policy (March 2026)

Google provides translated versions of the Advertising Policies Help Center, though they're not meant to change the content of the policies. The English version is the official language used to enforce Google Ads policies. To view this article in a different language, use the language dropdown at the bottom of the page.

The Google Ads Canada Cannabis Pilot Program, originally announced in August 2025, has been updated.

Eligibility criteria for the pilot program have been expanded. Participation is now open to entities holding the following specific government authorizations:

Federal Licenses (Health Canada)

• Cultivation
• Processing
• Sale for Medical Purposes

Provincial/Territorial Authorizations

• Authorized Government Operators
• Authorized Private Retailers

The change log has been amended to reflect this change and is included below for full context:

Google Ads is launching a limited pilot program in Canada for specific, legally allowed cannabis-related product types or services.

This pilot will run on Search only, beginning Aug 25, 2025, through Dec 31, 2026. Its purpose is to explore user interest and inform potential future policy updates.

During the pilot, cannabis product ads may be available on Search. If you see a relevant ad but prefer not to, you'll have the option to opt out and manage your ad preferences through My Ad Center.

Participation in this pilot is restricted to entities holding federal Health Canada licenses for Cultivation, Processing, or Sale for Medical Purposes, as well as provincially and territorially authorized government operators and private retailers.

(Posted on April 22, 2026)