Canada Legalizes Marijuana for Recreational Use The country is now the second to legalize the drug, followed by Uruguay. The Cannabis Act passed the Senate in a 52 to 29 vote on Tuesday. The measure legalizes the sale and purchase of marijuana by all adults, with home growing of up to four plants. According to BBC News, Canadians will be able to buy and consume the drug legally starting this fall. Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau promised to legalize marijuana when he was elected in 2015.