Adults only (18+)

Is Weed Legal in Berlin?

Cannabis is not fully legal in Berlin, but the city operates under Germany’s recent policy reforms that decriminalise small quantities for personal use and hold plans for regulated distribution. While recreational use remains unauthorised, medical cannabis is legal under federal regulations. Germany’s evolving legal landscape creates a unique situation in which Berlin residents and visitors must navigate both tolerance and restrictions carefully.

Federal Law and Legal Reform

At the national level, cannabis is classified as an illegal substance in Germany, and offences for possession or distribution may be prosecuted. However, recent policy announcements at the federal level propose a pilot scheme to allow controlled, non‑commercial cannabis use for adults. While these plans have yet to be fully implemented, Berliners can expect evolving local regulations in the months ahead.

Personal Use and Decriminalisation

Under current practice, possession of small amounts of cannabis for personal use in Berlin is typically treated with discretion by law enforcement. Mostly this applies to amounts up to approximately 6 to 10 grams. Individuals caught with such quantities are often issued a warning rather than face criminal charges, especially if they are not visibly impaired and have no indicators of intent to resell. However, public use or larger amounts may still lead to formal prosecution.

Medical Cannabis Access

Medical cannabis is legal across Germany for patients with qualifying conditions such as chronic pain chemotherapy nausea or multiple sclerosis. Prescriptions must be issued by a specialist physician and are filled through pharmacies. Medical cannabis users are not permitted to grow their own plants, and recreational use remains outside federal approval.

Cultivation at Home Remains Illegal

Home cultivation is not permitted in Germany, including Berlin. Growing cannabis plants even for personal use is technically illegal and may result in criminal prosecution. The newly announced pilot plans may introduce exceptions in specific municipalities, but at present private cultivation remains prohibited.

Public Use and Police Enforcement

Using cannabis in public places, including parks or streets, remains unlawful in Berlin. Police can issue fines or proceed with legal action for public consumption. While enforcement is often lenient for small personal use, public intoxication or smoking near children or schools can trigger tougher responses.

Pilot Schemes and Future Legalisation

Germany’s proposed regulated cannabis pilot programme aims to permit the cultivation possession and consumption of limited amounts under strict oversight. Selected cities may be authorised to experiment with dispensaries and licensed supply chains. Berlin may participate in such trials, shaping future access frameworks. Until these programmes are fully operational, cannabis remains illegal under standard law.

Tourists and Official Guidance

Visitors to Berlin should assume that cannabis is still prohibited unless participating in legally sanctioned medical or pilot programmes. Street purchase or public use can still result in fines or legal complications. Cannabis use in bars or social venues is not permitted unless part of a remote pilot community under testing.

Conclusion

Cannabis is not legal in Berlin right now. Small‑scale personal possession may be tolerated by local authorities, but public use, home cultivation and trafficking remain illegal. Medical cannabis is available under prescription. While the federal government is working to introduce regulated pilot schemes that may change access in the future, current legal frameworks continue to criminalise the sale and public consumption. If you are in Berlin, it is wise to stay updated about evolving laws and avoid assumptions regarding legal access.