The legalization of cannabis in Germany introduces several new methods for obtaining marijuana, which are detailed as follows:
Cannabis Social Clubs: Starting from July 1, 2024, nonprofit Cannabis Clubs can distribute cannabis products to their members at cost price. These clubs operate voluntarily, with the allowance for one or two mini-job employees. Membership requirements include a three-month tenure before the initial purchase to prevent transient buying, and membership is limited to one club per person. Additionally, membership is restricted to residents of Germany, preventing foreigners from joining clubs near borders to take cannabis out of the country.
Home Growing: Individuals in Germany are allowed to possess up to 50 grams of cannabis at home and 25 grams in public. Furthermore, each adult resident is permitted to grow up to three flowering female cannabis plants on their property. In shared living situations, the allowable number of plants increases proportionally to the number of adults, though children must not have access to cannabis. It's important to note that each individual must store their cannabis separately to comply with possession limits.
Pharmacies: With cannabis's reclassification, it is no longer listed under the Narcotics Banning Law (BtmG), simplifying the prescription process for medical cannabis. Doctors can now more easily prescribe cannabis for minor health issues, such as sleep or appetite problems.
Cannabis Shops in Test Regions: Over the next few years, Germany plans to introduce cannabis shops in selected test regions. This initiative aims to explore the effects of making cannabis accessible to adults over 18 in these areas. Only residents of the test regions will be permitted to purchase cannabis from these shops.
These changes mark a significant shift in cannabis regulation in Germany, offering multiple legal avenues for access while maintaining strict controls to prevent abuse and ensure public safety.