Cannabis legalization: rules for possession, cultivation, distribution and use – Germany

The legalization of cannabis in Germany is one of the biggest legal reforms of recent decades. Between recreational regulations, possession limits, consumption zones, THC limits and the new cultivation associations (clubs), the CanG has had a fundamental impact on the everyday lives of many people. At the same time, the medical field remains separate from this with the MedCanG. Here you will learn all the current rules of legalization, the most important facts and the political developments surrounding the Cannabis Act in Germany. Tip! Here we have prepared the cannabis law as a timeline for you, really interesting what has happened since 1991. You can also find our latest cannabis policy news here.

Legalization in Germany: The two laws (CanG & MedCanG)

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Legalization is based on two independent laws: the CanG for recreational use and the MedCanG for medical care. This separation is key, as only the medical law continues to allow purchase via pharmacies – including digitally via online ordering. The CanG, on the other hand, regulates possession, consumption, home cultivation and clubs – but without commercial sale.

• CanG = time off regulation
• MedCanG = Medical area
• No mixing of the two systems

Legalization, partial legalization, what’s the difference?

PS: Legalization, partial legalization, what’s the difference?

Cannabis legalization allows possession, cultivation and distribution within clearly regulated framework conditions, while partial legalization only allows selected areas. The decisive difference lies in how much is permitted and how strictly the state controls it.

• Legalization: Clear rules for possession, cultivation, distribution and use
• Partial legalization: Allows only certain forms, e.g. home cultivation or clubs

What is allowed since legalization (CanG)

Partial legalization has been in force since 01.04.2024. Adults are allowed to possess, consume and grow certain quantities at home. The legislator is thus pursuing three goals: Decriminalization, protection of minors and curbing the black market.

1. Possession of up to 25 g in public
2. 50 g at home
3. Maximum of 3 female plants in home cultivation

Ownership limits & legal consequences

The limits apply nationwide. Anyone who exceeds them still risks fines or criminal proceedings. Minors are not allowed to possess cannabis; any cannabis found will be confiscated.

• 25 g public
• 50 g private
• Penalties for exceeding

Home cultivation: what exactly is allowed

Home cultivation is a core element of legalization. It is permitted, but strictly regulated. Plants must be grown out of sight and out of the reach of children. Passing on is prohibited.

• 3 plants per household
• Self-supply only
• Secure location required

Growers’ associations (clubs)

Cannabis clubs(cultivation associations) have been allowed to start since 01.07.2024. These organizations produce collectively and sell the harvest to members – without the intention of making a profit. They had to comply with a complex registration system, documentation requirements and strict controls.

• Max. 500 members
• Only 1 club membership per person
• Delivery: 25 g/day or 50 g/month

THC limit value in road traffic

Legalization was followed by the nationwide THC limit: 3.5 ng/ml blood serum. If you fall below this value, you are not legally considered to be “under the influence” as long as there are no symptoms of failure. Harsher penalties apply for mixed consumption (e.g. THC + alcohol).

Read more: THC & driving.

• 3.5 ng/ml permitted
• No alcohol combination
• Penalty: 500 €, driving ban

Consumption bans & protection zones

The CanG defines protection zones for the protection of minors. These include distance zones from schools, daycare centers and facilities for minors. In pedestrian zones, an additional time window applies (consumption ban from 7:00-20:00). Violations lead to fines.

• No use within sight of daycare centers & schools
• Pedestrian zones: Ban before 8 p.m.
• High fines possible

What is NOT legal – despite legalization

A common misconception: many believe that cannabis is completely legal. In fact, key areas remain prohibited so as not to replace the black market with commercial alternatives. Instead, the legislator relies on home cultivation and clubs.

1. No commercial sale
2. No online stores for recreational cannabis
3. Disclosure to third parties prohibited

Politics & ongoing debates

Legalization is not a closed project. New proposals appear regularly: CDU calls for tightening, SPD & Greens openly talk about regulated specialist stores. At the same time, petitions, associations and patient organizations are taking action against planned restrictions in the medical sector.

• Discussion about legal specialist stores
• Criticism of the clubs’ documentation obligations
• Black market still active

You want updates?

You can find the latest news under Cannabis Policy News.

Medicine vs. legalization: the big difference

The medical sector functions independently of legalization. Patients will continue to obtain cannabis from pharmacies – with clearly controlled THC levels, quality and prescriptions. The recreational sector has no influence on this. Anyone who needs cannabis for medical purposes will continue to use a doctor’s prescription and can order it legally online.

• MedCanG is an independent law
• Prescription requirement remains in place
• Quality guaranteed via pharmacies