FAQs
Can I smoke or vape recreational cannabis on campus?
According to KPU Policy SR3 (Smoke Free Campuses and Premises Policy), smoking and vaping is prohibited on all KPU campuses and properties, including inside private vehicles while they are parked on KPU properties. This now includes recreational cannabis. KPU is committed to providing a safe and healthy environment for its students, employees, and contractors as well as visitors, and recognizes that smoking is a serious health hazard. For more information, please refer to KPU’s Smoke Free Campuses and Premises Policy.
What happens if I get caught with recreational cannabis or get caught smoking, vaping or consuming recreational cannabis while at KPU?
This could potentially be a violation of KPU Policy ST7 (Student Conduct Non-Academic) or KPU Policy SR3 (Smoke Free Campuses and Premises Policy). As with all University policies, enforcement can be taken through appropriate corrective administrative or non-academic discipline, or, in the case of a student, through the Student Rights and Responsibilities Office.
What should I do if I suspect someone is impaired by cannabis (or another non-medical drug) while at KPU and requires medical assistance?
a. If you suspect someone needs urgent medical attention, please call 911 and then call Security at your respective campus. Surrey Campus: 778.578.6312 - Richmond Campus: 604-244-0130 - Cloverdale Campus: 604.574.2840 - Langley Campus: 604-514-0297 – Civic Plaza: 604.598.5276
Will I get in trouble if I report someone impaired by cannabis on campus?
No, you will not get in trouble for reporting someone you believe is impaired by cannabis or other non-medical drugs. In any case requiring emergency medical assistance, anyone reporting potential drug use will not be subject to disciplinary action. This includes the person making the report, the person needing medical assistance, and any other witnesses or bystanders present at the time of the medical emergency.
What would happen if a student showed up to class impaired?
a. If a student created a disruption during class due to possible intoxication from recreational cannabis or other non-medical drugs, enforcement can be taken through appropriate corrective administrative or non-academic discipline. In the case of a student, this will be done through the Student Rights and Responsibilities Office.
What do I do if I see someone smoking recreational cannabis on campus?
They may be in violation of the Smoke Free Campuses and Premises Policy. Everyone on campus is expected to abide by all KPU policies, as well as provincial regulations regarding recreational cannabis possession and use. However, Security is on campus every day, and will ensure that the KPU community is aware of and following the rules.
What happens if I have a medical prescription for cannabis?
Students who require personalized plans to ensure access to the university and success in achieving academic goals should contact KPU Accessibility Services by phone at 604-599-2828 or by email at access@kpu.ca.
What about students in Continuing and Professional Studies programs? Can they use cannabis while on campus?
Students who require personalized plans to ensure access to the university and success in achieving academic goals should contact KPU Accessibility Services by phone at 604-599-2828 or by email at access@kpu.ca.
What about edible cannabis products? Are they also banned from KPU campuses?
Students are expected to treat recreational cannabis products, including edibles, similarly to other non-medical drugs or alcohol and not consume them while on KPU campuses and properties, including in your own personal vehicle.
Can I keep recreational cannabis in my backpack or pocket so I can use it when I’m off campus?
Yes, as long as it is not smoked, vaped or consumed while on KPU campuses and/or properties. Students are reminded to abide by all federal and provincial laws regarding recreational cannabis possession and use. This includes storing cannabis products in sealed, scent-proof containers when not in use. Additionally, students are reminded they are part of the KPU community, and behaviors that negatively impact other learners will be addressed. For example, KPU’s Scent Awareness Program considers the difficulties that exposure to scented products can cause, therefore the University encourages faculty, staff, students and visitors to avoid the use of heavy scents on campus.
How does KPU’s response to cannabis on campus compare to what other universities and colleges are doing?
The response is varied across Canada, but many universities have decided to go completely smoke free, similarly to KPU. Additionally, many campuses with residences are prohibiting smoking, consuming, or growing cannabis on their campuses.
Who can I speak to if I am concerned with my cannabis use?
If you are a student, there are a number of resources on campus where you can find support, including the Student Rights and Responsibilities office and KPU Counselling Services. For more on and off-campus resources, please visit the “Resources” section of this webpage.
Does KPU have a standalone cannabis policy?
No, at this current time there are no standalone policies focused on cannabis. However, KPU does have policy focused on the consumption of non-medical use of drugs and alcohol (SR1 - Consumption of Alcoholic Beverages and the Non-Medical Use of Drugs on University Premises Policy).