How We Verify Dispensaries
OntarioCanna's 5-step verification process ensures only licensed, legal cannabis dispensaries appear in our directory. Transparency builds trust.
Our 5-Step Verification Process
Government Licensing Database Check
We cross-reference every dispensary name, address, and license number against:
- •AGCO (Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario) licensing database for Ontario dispensaries
- •Health Canada's Licensed Cannabis Retailers database
- •Provincial government websites (BC, AB, QC, etc.) for nationwide coverage
- •City/municipality business license registries
Why: This step ensures the dispensary is legally licensed and authorized to sell cannabis in their province.
Business Registration & Ownership Verification
We confirm:
- •Business name matches government records (no name mismatches)
- •Legal owner(s) and business structure (sole proprietor, corporation, etc.)
- •Business registration number is valid and current
- •No suspended or revoked licenses in history
Why: Business registration verification prevents fraudulent or shell companies from being listed.
Contact & Location Verification
We verify:
- •Physical address matches government records (no PO boxes)
- •Phone number is active and connected to the business
- •Website (if provided) is legitimate and matches business name
- •Hours of operation are accurate and current
- •Local presence confirmed via Google Maps, Yelp, or in-person visit
Why: Consumers need accurate, current contact information to reach dispensaries.
Ongoing Monitoring & Quality Checks
We continuously monitor:
- •Monthly re-verification against AGCO/provincial databases
- •Payment method updates (Interac e-Transfer, crypto acceptance)
- •Menu & product changes (strains, edibles, concentrates)
- •Customer reviews for fraud or spam
- •News sources for licensing changes or closures
Why: Cannabis regulations and dispensary operations change frequently. Monthly checks keep data current.
Removal & Appeal Process
If a dispensary:
- •Loses its license → Removed within 24 hours
- •Closes permanently → Removed and marked as historical
- •Has a license status change → Updated within 48 hours
- •Is challenged → Owners can appeal with proof of updated license
Why: We remove closed or illegal dispensaries immediately to maintain directory integrity.
Verification Timeline
Here's how long each verification step takes from submission to listing:
What We Check For Each Dispensary
Legal & Licensing
- Current license number
- License status (active/suspended)
- License expiry date
- Provincial authorization
Business Information
- Business name (legal)
- Owner(s) name
- Registration number
- Tax ID verification
Contact Details
- Physical address
- Phone number (active)
- Website (if claimed)
- Email address
Operations
- Hours of operation
- Days open
- Delivery available?
- Curbside pickup?
Payment Methods
- Interac e-Transfer
- Bitcoin, Ethereum, USDT
- Cash on delivery
- Gift cards
Products
- Flower types (Indica/Sativa/Hybrid)
- Edibles available
- Concentrates
- CBD products
Government Databases We Check
OntarioCanna cross-references every dispensary against official government licensing databases across Canada:
AGCO Licensed Cannabis Retailers (Ontario)
https://www.agco.ca
Health Canada Licensed Cannabis Retailers
https://www.canada.ca/cannabis
BC Liquor and Cannabis Regulation (LCRB)
https://www.bclcr.com
Alberta Gaming, Liquor & Cannabis
https://www.aglc.ca
Québec Cannabis Retailer Registry
https://www.quebec.ca
Manitoba Cannabis Regulation
https://www.gov.mb.ca
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does OntarioCanna verify dispensaries?
Verification ensures only licensed, active dispensaries are listed. This protects consumers from illegal vendors and provides confidence when using OntarioCanna.
How often are dispensaries re-verified?
All dispensaries are re-checked monthly against government licensing databases to ensure they remain active and licensed.
Can I report an unlicensed or fraudulent dispensary?
Yes. Contact us at corrections@ontariocanna.ca with the dispensary name, location, and details. We investigate all reports within 24 hours.
Found An Issue?
If you spot an unlicensed dispensary, outdated information, or any verification concern:
Email us
corrections@ontariocanna.caInclude:
- • Dispensary name and location
- • What's incorrect or suspicious
- • Any evidence (screenshots, links, etc.)
We investigate all reports within 24 hours.
Why You Can Trust OntarioCanna
Our rigorous verification process means every dispensary on OntarioCanna.ca is legal, licensed, and currently operating. We remove closed or unlicensed dispensaries within 24 hours of discovery. No exceptions.
Learn more about our standards in our Editorial Policy.