After Germany legalized cannabis in April 2024, cannabis crimes in Berlin fell by more than 68% in just seven months. Germany became the third EU country to legalize recreational cannabis. But what does this mean for residents, tourists, and the future of cannabis in Europe?
Is Cannabis Legal in Germany? Legal Status in 2025
Yes, cannabis is partially legal in Germany. Recreational cannabis use is decriminalized in some cases, but it is not fully legal. Medical cannabis is legal and regulated, and industrial hemp is permitted under strict guidelines. Here’s what is allowed:
- Possession: Carry up to 25 grams publicly and store up to 50 grams at home.
- Home cultivation: 3 plants per adult (not per household).
- Cannabis clubs: These non-profit “social clubs” can give cannabis to members. But, they cannot sell it.
1. Recreational Use
Recreational cannabis is legal, but with major limits:
- Where you can’t smoke: near schools, playgrounds, or sports facilities. Smoking in pedestrian zones is banned between 7 AM and 8 PM.
- No commercial sales: You can’t buy cannabis in stores. Instead, adults must grow it themselves or join a cannabis club (membership takes 6+ months).
2. Medicinal Use
Medical cannabis has been legal since 2017, but reforms in 2024 made it easier to access. Doctors can now prescribe it for chronic pain, many sclerosis, and other conditions. The medical market grew by 50% in 2024, with pharmacies selling approved products.
3. Industrial Use
Industrial hemp (low-THC cannabis) is legal for products like textiles and CBD oil. But, Germany’s “intoxication clause” restricts the sales of hemp flowers. Advocates are pushing to remove this rule to expand the market.
Cannabis Law and Control in Germany
Germany’s cannabis laws are a mix of progress and paradox: legal to have but hard to buy. While the reforms aim to crush the black market, challenges remain.
1. How Germany Applies Cannabis Laws
Germany’s laws focus on safety and reducing crime:
- Cannabis clubs: Limited to 500 members, and they cannot advertise or make profits.
- Pilot trials: Cities like Berlin are testing regulated sales in 2025 to study the impacts.
- Driving rules: Drivers can’t have more than 3.5 ng/ml of THC in their blood.
2. The Illegal Cannabis Market
Despite legalization, the black market persists. Critics argue that high club fees (up to €50/month) and slow approvals push users to illegal dealers. Police reported 1,685 cannabis crimes in Berlin post-legalization, down from 5,315 in 2022.
Cannabis Usage and Its Impact in Germany
1. Recreational Drug Use
Cannabis use among 18–25-year-olds doubled in the past decade. Legalization seeks safer products. But, public health experts are concerned about addiction risks.
2. Mental Health Concerns
Doctors warn that heavy cannabis use can harm developing brains. The law bans under-18s from using it, but enforcement is challenging.
3. Industrial Cannabis Use
Germany’s CBD market is booming, with oils and skincare products leading sales. Reforms could boost hemp farming if the “intoxication clause” is removed.
Cannabis Cultivation in Germany
Adults can grow up to 3 plants at home, but sharing or selling harvested cannabis is illegal. Cannabis clubs must follow strict rules:
- Growing limits: Clubs can’t grow more than necessary for their members.
- No onsite use: Members can’t smoke at the club.
Cannabis Penalties in Germany
| Offense | Penalty |
| Personal Use | Exceeding possession limits: Fines or jail time. |
| Trafficking | Selling cannabis illegally can lead to years in prison, especially for large quantities. |
| Growing | Growing more than 3 plants or selling homegrown cannabis risks fines and criminal charges. |
Future of Cannabis Legalization in Germany
The 2025 federal election could change everything. The CDU party promises to reverse legalization if they win. In contrast, other parties aim to expand it.
Meanwhile, pilot trials in Berlin and other cities will test regulated sales starting mid-2025. The EU also debates harmonizing cannabis laws, which could shape Germany’s next steps.
