Adults only (18+)

Legal Status of Cannabis in Germany

Cannabis laws in Germany have undergone significant changes in recent years, but the legal landscape remains complex. As of April 2024, Germany legalised the limited personal use of cannabis, marking a major policy shift from previous prohibition. Under the new law, adults aged 18 and over are permitted to possess and consume cannabis for personal use within specified limits. The cultivation of cannabis at home is also allowed in small quantities. Despite these reforms, the sale and commercial distribution of recreational cannabis remain prohibited. Instead, regulated cannabis clubs are permitted to distribute cannabis to their registered members under strict guidelines. These changes form part of a broader effort to reduce the criminalisation of cannabis users and focus on harm reduction.

Personal Possession and Use

Under the revised law, adults may legally possess up to 25 grams of cannabis for personal use in public spaces and up to 50 grams in private settings such as their home. Public consumption is allowed but not within sight of schools, playgrounds or sports facilities, and not between the hours of 7 am and 8 pm in pedestrian zones. These rules aim to protect minors and maintain public order while giving adults the freedom to use cannabis responsibly. Possession exceeding the legal limits remains a criminal offence and may lead to fines or prosecution depending on the quantity involved and the circumstances of the case.

Cannabis Cultivation at Home

The new law also allows individuals to grow up to three cannabis plants per household for personal use. Cultivation must be carried out in secure, private areas to prevent unauthorised access, especially by minors. There are regulations regarding the safety and storage of harvested cannabis to ensure it is not sold or shared illegally. Growing more than the permitted number of plants or failing to comply with storage and safety requirements can still result in penalties. The legalisation of home growing is intended to provide adult users with a safer and more controlled alternative to the illicit market.

Cannabis Clubs and Distribution

Germany's cannabis reform includes a provision for the establishment of non-profit cannabis clubs, sometimes referred to as social clubs. These clubs may have up to 500 registered members and are allowed to cultivate cannabis collectively for distribution among their members. Members may receive up to 25 grams per day and a maximum of 50 grams per month. Clubs must adhere to strict regulations including seed sourcing, tracking systems, security protocols and member registration. The sale of cannabis remains illegal outside these clubs, and any commercial activity involving cannabis is still prohibited. These clubs represent an alternative distribution model aimed at reducing black market activity while maintaining control over supply and consumption.

Medical Cannabis in Germany

Medical cannabis has been legal in Germany since 2017. Patients with serious health conditions such as chronic pain, multiple sclerosis or chemotherapy-induced nausea may receive prescriptions for cannabis-based medicines from their doctors. These prescriptions are filled through pharmacies and are reimbursed by health insurance providers in many cases. Medical cannabis products may include dried flower, oils and synthetic cannabinoids, and patients must undergo a proper medical assessment to qualify. The medical cannabis programme operates separately from the recreational use framework and is tightly regulated through the country’s healthcare system.

Cannabis and Driving Regulations

Driving under the influence of cannabis remains illegal in Germany. Authorities have set strict thresholds for THC levels in the bloodstream, and individuals caught exceeding these limits while operating a vehicle can face fines, driving bans and even criminal charges. Unlike alcohol, where small amounts may be tolerated, the law views any active impairment from cannabis as grounds for enforcement. Legal possession or medical use does not exempt individuals from these rules. Transporting cannabis in a vehicle must also comply with possession limits and storage requirements to avoid legal issues.

Youth Protection and Public Health

One of the key objectives of Germany’s cannabis reform is the protection of young people. All cannabis use remains illegal for individuals under the age of 18, and providing cannabis to minors is a criminal offence. Education campaigns are being launched to inform young people and the wider public about the risks associated with cannabis use, particularly in relation to mental health and brain development. The government has framed the new law as a public health measure rather than a liberalisation of drug use, with an emphasis on prevention, harm reduction and research into long-term health effects.

Tourists and Non-Residents

Tourists visiting Germany must follow the same cannabis laws as residents. Adults may possess and consume cannabis within the legal limits but must avoid using it in restricted areas or outside the allowed timeframes. It is illegal to export or import cannabis to or from Germany, including cannabis purchased legally in other countries. Visitors should also be aware that cannabis use may still be viewed differently across regions and that discretion is advised. Any violation of local laws or misunderstanding of the rules may result in confiscation, fines or legal proceedings.

Common Misunderstandings

A frequent misconception is that cannabis is now fully legal in Germany. While personal use and home cultivation have been legalised to a certain extent, commercial sales remain prohibited and are unlikely to be introduced in the immediate future. Another misunderstanding is that cannabis use is permitted in all public places, when in fact there are numerous restrictions on where and when it may be used. Additionally, some people assume that being a member of a cannabis club is a loophole for unrestricted access, but these clubs are subject to rigorous oversight and membership requirements.

Future Developments and Political Landscape

Germany's cannabis policy continues to evolve, and further legislative refinements are expected as the government monitors the impact of the new law. Ongoing discussions include the possibility of pilot programmes to study regulated commercial sales in specific regions. Public opinion remains largely supportive of the new approach, though there are concerns about health risks, law enforcement capacity and youth exposure. The success of the current framework will likely influence future changes and may serve as a model for other European countries considering similar reforms.

In Summary

Cannabis is now legal in Germany for personal use within defined limits. Adults may possess up to 25 grams in public, grow up to three plants at home and join licensed cannabis clubs for regulated distribution. Medical cannabis remains available through prescription for patients with serious health conditions. Driving under the influence and providing cannabis to minors are still strictly prohibited. Commercial sales are not allowed, and international import or export of cannabis is illegal. The new law represents a significant shift toward harm reduction and regulation, but users must remain aware of the restrictions and comply with all conditions to stay within the law.