An unlicensed marijuana smoking lounge has been operating in the 1400 block of Main Street in Winnipeg for more than two weeks.
Former Winnipeg police officer Bill VanderGraff is one of three directors of Vapes on Main, a business he calls a medical marijuana social club.
He acknowledges that patrons are not asked to produce a medical marijuana prescription or license.
The business does not offer anything for sale and users are expected to provide their own marijuana.
VanderGraaf said the lounge has not had any dealings with either city police or City of Winnipeg officials but he invites them to look into the business, saying he is confident it complies with the law.
In a statement, staff said the City of Winnipeg does not issue licences for this type of business.
“There is nothing under the Doing Business In Winnipeg By-law and nothing under the zoning by-law that would regulate this,” said the statement.
Winnipeg police issued a statement on Tuesday.
"We are aware that this establishment recently opened and are monitoring the situation. As you are aware, there are a number of rules and regulations with respect to the use of medical (marijuana) and we wish to ensure that those processes are adhered to," said Const. Eric Hofley.
