If your cannabis-related business has ever tried to run ads on Google and been shut down, you’re not alone. It's a common frustration among dispensary owners, CBD retailers, and cannabis-related brands who are simply trying to reach their audience. But here's the deal — Google has strict policies around what can and can’t be promoted on their platform, and cannabis (even in legalized regions) is on the no-fly list.
According to Google’s Dangerous Products or Services policy, the platform doesn’t allow the promotion of substances that alter mental state for recreational purposes, including marijuana (regardless of legality in a given location). This means your ads can be disapproved, accounts can be suspended, and even if you're trying to follow the rules, it often feels like you're playing a game you can't win.
So what should you do when your Google Ads get blocked? Let’s break it down. Other questions? Hit me up in the comments, or send us a note.
Navigating Google Ads Restrictions in the Cannabis Industry
Q: But my competitor X is advertising on Google Ads, how are they doing it?
This is one of the most common things we hear. You look up your competition and see their ads running in what seems like a blatant violation of Google's rules. It’s frustrating, but here’s the reality:
They're either not actually advertising cannabis, or they're using black hat strategies that will eventually catch up with them. Some companies skirt the rules by avoiding keywords like "cannabis" or "THC" and instead advertise adjacent products or use intentionally vague language. Others funnel traffic to "safe" pages and try to sneak in cannabis-related content elsewhere on their site.
This kind of workaround may work in the short term, but Google’s review system is both manual and automated — and it’s always improving. It’s only a matter of time before those ads get flagged and accounts get shut down. So, while your competitor may seem to be winning, it's often a short-lived victory.
Q: Can I just create another account and try again?
Technically? Yes. Realistically? Not a great idea.
Some people try to get around suspensions by creating new Google Ads accounts under different names, emails, billing information, and IP addresses. Sometimes, it works — for a while. But Google’s tracking is sophisticated. Once they connect the dots between your new account and your banned one (through domain associations, login behaviors, or even reused content), they can suspend all linked accounts.
Worse yet, there are anecdotal reports (and plenty of speculation) that repeated policy violations may influence your organic search visibility — meaning your SEO rankings could be penalized, even though this hasn’t been officially confirmed by Google.
So, while starting over might give you a temporary advertising window, it’s a high-risk move with potentially serious long-term consequences.
Q: Can I get around this by not saying Cannabis-related words like THC, Weed, Cannabis, Marijuana?
It might buy you some time, but it’s not a real solution.
Google doesn’t just look at your ad copy. It also reviews the landing pages your ads link to, the search terms people are using to find your site, and other content across your domain. You could create a squeaky-clean ad that says nothing about cannabis, but if your website is filled with marijuana content, it's going to raise red flags.
This technique — often called “veiling” — involves advertising generic wellness or lifestyle products while pushing cannabis in the background. But again, Google’s algorithm is increasingly sophisticated. It learns what kinds of pages get flagged, which industries bend the rules, and which domains should be scrutinized.
In short: they’ll find out eventually. And when they do, you’re back to square one — or worse, completely banned from their platform.
Q: So what should I do?
If Google Ads are off the table, it’s time to get smart with your marketing strategy. Here's a better, longer-term approach to support your Cannabis Marketing:
- Try alternative ad platforms: Use Meta (Facebook/Instagram), Reddit Ads, or cannabis-friendly programmatic networks like Mantis or Traffic Roots.
- Invest in local SEO: Optimize your Google Business Profile, use local keywords, and maintain consistent NAP data across directories.
- Leverage email and content marketing: Build an email list, create educational blog posts or videos, and nurture your existing audience.
- Host community events: Organize workshops, pop-ups, or seasonal promotions to deepen local engagement and customer loyalty (Coming soon to Local Leaf Marketing!)
- Create referral and loyalty programs: Encourage word-of-mouth with rewards and points systems for repeat customers and referrals.
Final Thoughts
Getting your Google Ads blocked as a cannabis brand is frustrating — but it's not the end of the road. In fact, it might be a blessing in disguise. Forced creativity and compliance can help you build a marketing strategy that’s more sustainable, resilient, and aligned with the cannabis community’s unique vibe.
Instead of chasing short-term black hat tactics that put your business at risk, double down on channels that support your growth, build trust, and engage your audience in meaningful ways.
There are plenty of ways to grow your cannabis business — even if Google Ads isn’t one of them.
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