Recreational cannabis use: what is legal? Weed, growing, grow clubs

Since partial legalization in 2024, recreational cannabis use has been a hotly debated topic in Germany. But what is actually allowed, where can you consume it and what should you bear in mind when growing at home? Here you will find all the important facts, including tips for patients and novice growers – all up to date as of July 2025.

Recreational cannabis use in Germany: What applies?

Adults aged 18 and over have been allowed to consume cannabis for personal use in Germany since April 2024. Up to 25 grams are permitted in public and up to 50 grams at home. The aim of the reform was to combine decriminalization, youth protection and curbing the black market.

Recreational cannabis is legal – but only if you stick to the rules.

Incidentally, medicinal cannabis was already permitted many years earlier. Whether it’s recreational use or medicinal cannabis, when smoking joints (and similar) you have to abide by the rules.

Where are you allowed to consume?

You may consume at home, in your private garden or on the balcony – provided that it does not disturb anyone and children are not nearby. In public, the following applies: no consumption in schools, daycare centers, sports facilities or during the day (7 am – 8 pm) in pedestrian zones. You can find out where these places are on the Bubatz map, for example. Some federal states have defined regional bans in parks or at certain hotspots on the so-called “Bubatz map“.

  • At home: allowed (consideration for neighbors and children!)
  • Balcony: allowed, as long as private
  • Public: only outside restricted areas
  • Observe regional bans (“Bubatz card” check!)

Why the protection of minors is so important

The law focuses on the protection of minors. Consumption in front of children or passing it on to minors is strictly prohibited and will be severely punished. Parents must ensure that there are no unattended cannabis plants or products lying around at home.

  • No consumption in front of children
  • Keeping plants safe for children
  • Not to be passed on to minors

Growing cannabis at home: legal, but with rules

Adults may grow up to three female cannabis plants privately. The plants must be kept safe from children and protected from public access. Commercial cultivation remains prohibited.

A maximum of 3 plants per adult, for personal use only.

What is allowed?

Cultivation may only take place privately, without commercial intent. You must ensure that children and young people do not have access and that the plants are not visible to neighbors or passers-by.

  • Max. 3 plants per adult
  • Not visible to the public (no open balcony without privacy screen)
  • No transfer to third parties

Growing guide for beginners: 10 simple steps

Want to start at home? Here’s a simple guide with tips from Gebrüder Grow:

Medical cannabis: have you heard of it?

Many people use cannabis for relaxation, stress relief or sleep problems. However, if you have serious health problems, it is worth taking a look at medicinal cannabis. You can get this after consulting a doctor – often online – and it is specially formulated for therapeutic purposes.

  • Stress, insomnia, pain: medical clarification makes sense
  • Online prescriptions via telemedicine (still permitted, but politically controversial!)
  • Medical products: tested, standardized, pharmacy-only
  • This works with cannabis prescription

Tip! You can register with us free of charge and request your treatment.

That means leisure consumption in Germany!

Recreational use is permitted in Germany – but with responsibility. Find out about the rules, protect children and neighbors, and consider whether medical cannabis is a better alternative if you have health problems. If you grow at home: start small, learn and comply with the legal requirements.

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