Adults only (18+)

Legal Status of Cannabis in Denmark

Cannabis remains strictly illegal for recreational use throughout Denmark. The country’s laws do not permit possession, use, cultivation or distribution of THC-containing cannabis for personal or leisure purposes. However, enforcement for very small personal amounts typically results in a fine rather than imprisonment. Adults found with under approximately 9.9 grams of cannabis may receive a fine or in some cases a warning, particularly for socially vulnerable individuals. Nonetheless, possession is always considered a prosecutable offence under Danish narcotics legislation. Possessing larger quantities, such as over 100 grams, may lead to criminal charges and prison sentences. Driving under the influence of cannabis is illegal and may result in penalties including fines and loss of a driving licence, even when only trace amounts of THC are detected.

Medical Cannabis: Access Through Official Programmes

Denmark has permitted the medical use of cannabis since 2011 through prescription-only synthetic medicines such as Sativex, Marinol and Nabilone. In 2018, the government introduced a pilot programme to allow access to herbal cannabis products for approved patients. That programme is now being formalised into permanent law following legislation passed in 2025. From January 2026, Danish patients will be able to access medical cannabis products through general practitioners and pharmacies, regulated under the Danish Medicines Agency. This access will be limited to certain health conditions such as multiple sclerosis, chronic pain and the side effects of chemotherapy. Approved patients can receive prescriptions that are reimbursed through the national health service, subject to eligibility criteria and supply availability.

Cultivation, Seeds and Industrial Hemp: Legal Distinctions

Cannabis seeds are legal to buy and sell in Denmark, but growing cannabis plants is not permitted for personal use. Cultivation of any THC-rich cannabis for recreational purposes is prohibited and may result in legal prosecution. Industrial hemp is permitted under European Union regulations provided the THC content does not exceed approved limits. Hemp is used in food, textiles and health products and can be cultivated by licensed farmers. CBD products derived from hemp are permitted if they do not contain detectable levels of psychoactive THC. These products may be sold as food supplements or cosmetics but cannot be advertised as having medicinal benefits unless approved by health authorities.

Special Case: Freetown Christiania

Christiania in Copenhagen has long been known for its open cannabis market, particularly along Pusher Street. Although never legal, cannabis was informally tolerated in this area for years. However, following rising crime and a fatal shooting in 2023, Danish authorities and Christiania residents agreed to dismantle the stalls and remove open cannabis trade from the area in 2024. This move signalled a stronger enforcement stance, and cannabis sale and possession in Christiania is now treated the same as anywhere else in Denmark. Public consumption and informal street dealing are no longer tolerated and are subject to police action.

Enforcement and Practical Realities

In day-to-day terms, possession of very small amounts of cannabis often results in a fine, typically starting at around 2,000 Danish kroner. Repeat offences or larger quantities are likely to result in harsher penalties including criminal charges. Danish police actively pursue distribution offences and those involved in cannabis supply networks. Sharing cannabis, growing plants or storing large quantities at home is likely to be interpreted as intent to distribute, which carries more serious consequences. While some areas previously showed more leniency, the national approach is now more uniform and focused on reducing availability and trafficking.

CBD Products and Consumer Experience

CBD products with no more than trace levels of THC are legally sold in Denmark. These include oils, balms, edibles and wellness supplements available in health shops and pharmacies. The products must comply with safety and food regulations and cannot be sold with medicinal claims unless formally licensed. Consumers may find a wide range of CBD options, but should ensure they are buying from reputable sources to avoid products with unclear contents or unverified THC levels. Legal CBD does not produce any psychoactive effect and is used for relaxation or general wellness.

Misconceptions and FAQs

Many people wrongly assume that cannabis is legal or decriminalised in Denmark due to its prior visibility in Christiania. This is not true. Cannabis is illegal across the country, and the removal of the open market in Christiania reflects a tightening of policy. Another common misconception is that owning cannabis seeds means you can grow your own plants, but cultivation remains a criminal offence. Some visitors believe they can use cannabis if it is prescribed abroad, but Denmark does not recognise foreign medical cannabis prescriptions. Travellers bringing cannabis into the country may face legal consequences even if they are using it for medical reasons.

Outlook and Future Developments

There is some public and political debate about the future of cannabis legislation in Denmark. A few smaller political parties and campaigners support decriminalisation or legalisation, but these views have not gained majority support in parliament. The main focus of current legislation is the medical cannabis programme, which is set to become a permanent part of the healthcare system in 2026. Although this marks progress for patient access, there are no plans to introduce legal recreational cannabis or coffee shop-style venues. The future of broader reform will likely depend on political shifts, public health research and European trends.

In Summary

Cannabis remains illegal for recreational use in Denmark, and possession of even small amounts is subject to fines and legal consequences. Medical cannabis is available under a tightly regulated scheme that will become permanent in 2026. Cultivation of cannabis for personal use is prohibited, even though cannabis seeds can be legally purchased. Industrial hemp and CBD products are legal as long as they contain minimal or no THC and meet health and safety standards. The former open market in Christiania has been closed, and cannabis is now fully subject to enforcement nationwide. Tourists and residents alike are advised to follow the law carefully.