Cannabis partial legalization: rule for private home cultivation and cultivation associations (clubs)

The partial legalization of cannabis in Germany is one of the biggest reforms in narcotics law in decades. Since 2024, possession, consumption, home cultivation and cultivation associations have been regulated by law – but without commercial sale. The rules of the Cannabis Act(CanG) create clear boundaries, prohibition zones and quantity limits for the first time. Here you can find out what the partial legalization actually allows, where the limits are and what the political goals behind it are. Tip! We have prepared a timeline of the cannabis law for you here – it’s really interesting to see what has happened since 1991. You can also find our latest cannabis policy news here.

What exactly does “partial legalization” mean?

einfach erklärt

Germany has not fully legalized cannabis, but partially legalized it. This means

“Possession and home cultivation are legal, but there is no commercial sale.”

Only growers’ associations are allowed to grow together and sell to members. The reform was implemented in two phases – April 2024 and July 2024.

• Legal: possession, consumption, home-growing
• Legal: Distribution via clubs
• Illegal: Sale in stores or online stores

Phase 1 (from 01.04.2024): Possession, cultivation & consumption

When partial legalization came into force, fundamental bans were lifted. Adults are allowed to possess, consume and grow cannabis privately. At the same time, strict rules apply to protected areas such as schools and daycare centers. You can also find all current rules in the overview: Rules of the Cannabis Act.

• 25 g Possession in public space
• 50 g at home
• 3 female plants in home cultivation

Consumption zones & prohibited areas

Partial legalization allows consumption, but not everywhere. The law defines nationwide protection zones that serve to protect minors. Violations can result in high fines. Maps such as the Bubatz map provide guidance.

• Ban within sight of daycare centers & schools
• Pedestrian zones: Consumption ban 7-20 h
• Strict framework for fines

Up to 50 g legal from your private cannabis harvest.

Phase 2 (from 01.07.2024): Start of the cultivation associations

The second stage of partial legalization concerns cultivation associations, often referred to as “cannabis clubs”. They are allowed to cultivate collectively and supply cannabis to registered members. The clubs are subject to strict documentation and inspection obligations. Find out more: Growing clubs explained.

• Maximum 500 members per club
• Only one membership per person
• Delivery: 25 g/day or 50 g/month

Why clubs and no trade?

The EU does not currently permit commercial legalization. Germany is therefore relying on a “non-commercial model”. The aim is to remove consumers from the black market without creating new sales structures.

• EU law limits sale
• Focus on youth protection & prevention
• Clubs are subject to strict controls

Up to 50 g per month from the growers’ association is now legal:

THC limit value & road traffic

A central part of the partial legalization is the new THC limit: 3.5 ng/ml blood serum. It defines when driving under the influence of THC is considered an offense. An absolute ban applies to novice drivers and under-21s. More on this in the traffic guide: THC limits in road traffic.

• 3.5 ng/ml limit value
• Harsher penalties for mixed consumption
• 500 € + driving ban

3 things that are still not allowed

Many misunderstandings arise because partial legalization is often interpreted as full liberalization. In fact, many areas remain prohibited.

1. No commercial sale
2. No freely accessible stores
3. No online stores for recreational cannabis

Why did Germany opt for partial legalization?

The German government is pursuing three political and social goals with the reform. These include easing the burden on the justice system, improving control over consumption and curbing the black market. In addition, prevention and education are to be strengthened.

• Fewer criminal proceedings
• More protection for young people
• Control instead of illegality

As mentioned at the beginning, you can always find weekly updates in our Cannabis Policy News.

Partial legalization & medical cannabis

Important: The partial legalization only affects the recreational sector. The medical sector remains regulated separately by the MedCanG. Patients can continue to obtain cannabis from doctors and pharmacies – including via digital prescription processing.

• MedCanG remains unchanged
• Compulsory prescription for medical products
• No clubs for medical purposes