FORT ST. JOHN -- The province has released new guidelines on public marijuana use to help support the industry’s hospitality and tourism opportunities.

Cannabis use will now be permitted on public patios, and wherever smoking or vaping tobacco products is permitted.

Licensed cannabis suppliers can also promote places where enthusiasts can use cannabis and spend time in following consumption including events, lounges, and designated smoking areas at hotels.

Lighting-up will still be banned inside retail stores that sell legal products, and exceptions will be made to coincide with local by-laws or Indigenous government rules.

The City of Fort St. John currently does not have any by-laws that would prohibit the new regulation, however smoking and vaping is currently not allowed within 200 metres of schools, and 100 metres of parks.

The new regulations went into effect February 14th.