Did you know that over 200 million people worldwide use cannabis each year? Yet, in some places, like Monaco, even holding a tiny amount can lead to serious trouble. Monaco, a small country on the French Riviera, is famous for its casinos, luxury yachts, and strict laws. But what about cannabis? Is it legal in Monaco? Let’s find out.
Is Cannabis Legal in Monaco? Legal Status in 2025
No, cannabis is illegal in Monaco for recreational, medical, and industrial use. Monaco has some of the toughest drug laws in Europe. Monaco bans all cannabis.
In contrast, France allows medical cannabis. Police actively enforce these laws, and penalties can include fines, jail time, or both.
Monaco’s government follows a “zero tolerance” policy. This means even small amounts of cannabis (like a single joint) can lead to arrest. In 2022, Monaco had 47 drug-related arrests. Cannabis was the most common substance.
1. Recreational Use
Recreational cannabis is fully banned. Sharing, selling, or using it publicly can result in fines of up to €15,000 or a year in jail.
2. Medicinal Use
Medical cannabis is also illegal. Over 30 countries, including Germany and Canada, allow it for chronic pain. But Monaco does not. Patients needing cannabis must seek treatment abroad.
3. Industrial Use
Industrial hemp (used for fabrics or CBD products) is prohibited too. Most European countries permit hemp with less than 0.3% THC, but Monaco does not.
Cannabis Law and Control in Monaco
1. How Monaco Applies Cannabis Laws
Monaco’s police work closely with French authorities to stop drug trafficking. Checkpoints at borders and ports help catch smugglers. Tourists are not exempt; in 2021, a visitor was fined €3,000 for carrying 2 grams of cannabis.
2. The Illegal Cannabis Market
Despite strict laws, illegal cannabis exists. A 2023 report found that 1 in 50 Monaco residents admitted to trying cannabis, lower than France’s 1 in 5. Most illegal cannabis enters from France, where laws are slightly looser.
Cannabis Usage and Its Impact in Monaco
1. Recreational Drug Use
Cannabis use in Monaco is rare compared to global trends. Only 2% of adults here have tried it, versus 18% in the United States.
2. Mental Health Concerns
Globally, 10% of cannabis users develop an addiction. Monaco’s strict laws may lower usage rates. But, those who use it in secret risk anxiety and depression without support.
3. Industrial Cannabis Use
Monaco misses out on Europe’s €1.7 billion hemp industry. Hemp could be used for eco-friendly products, but it remains banned.
Cannabis Cultivation in Monaco
Growing cannabis is illegal, even for personal use. Police use drones and patrols to find hidden plants. In 2020, a man was jailed for six months after growing three plants on his balcony.
Cannabis Penalties in Monaco
| Offense | Penalty |
| Personal Use | First offense fines up to €500–€3,000. |
| Trafficking | Selling cannabis can lead to 5–10 years in prison, plus fines up to €500,000. |
| Growing | Growing any amount results in 1–5 years in jail. |
Future of Cannabis Legalization in Monaco
Monaco shows no interest in legalizing cannabis. The government prioritizes safety and tradition. Global changes, such as Canada’s 2018 legalization, might push Monaco to rethink its laws. But this probably won’t happen until after 2030.
Cannabis laws in Monaco are clear: it’s illegal in all forms. While this reduces usage rates, it also limits medical options and economic opportunities. For now, Monaco remains a “no-go” zone for cannabis enthusiasts.
