Berlin has always been the capital of counter-culture, but since the CanG (Cannabisgesetz) came into effect on April 1, 2024, the landscape has changed dramatically. Here is everything you need to know about the current legal status of cannabis in Berlin.
1. Possession Limits (Public vs. Private)
The rules are strict but fair. As an adult (18+), you are legally allowed to:
- Carry up to 25 grams of cannabis for personal use in public spaces.
- Store up to 50 grams of dried cannabis at your permanent residence.
- Cultivate up to 3 living plants per adult in your household.
2. Where Can You Smoke?
Consumption is generally permitted in public, but there are critical "protection zones" where it is banned:
- Within 100 meters of schools, playgrounds, Kindergartens, and sports facilities.
- In pedestrian zones (Fußgängerzonen) between 7:00 and 20:00.
- In the immediate presence of minors.
3. Buying Weed: The "Social Club" Model
Unlike Amsterdam or US dispensaries, you cannot simply walk into a shop and buy weed. Germany utilizes Cannabis Social Clubs (CSCs).
These are non-profit associations where members grow cannabis collectively. To obtain cannabis legally, you must:
- Be a resident of Germany (Anmeldung required).
- Register as a member of a CSC (often with a waiting list).
- Wait for the harvest distribution (dispensing is limited to 25g/day or 50g/month).
Visitor / Tourist Info
Tourists cannot legally buy cannabis in Social Clubs. The law is designed to prevent "drug tourism." If you are visiting Berlin, be aware that purchasing from street dealers remains illegal, although possession (up to 25g) is not prosecuted.