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Germany Cannabis Overview
In April 2024, Germany made history by legalizing recreational marijuana under the Cannabis Act (Cannabisgesetz, CanG). While legal recreational dispensaries are not yet an option, joining a cannabis social club is currently the only way to legally access cannabis without growing it at home.
As of now, only 14 cannabis social clubs have secured a license, and it wasn’t until November that cannabis was distributed to club members for the first time. The high demand for cannabis is inspiring more people to join or start their own cannabis social clubs. This article explores German cannabis social clubs, covering their purpose, regulations, obligations, and impact on Germany.
What are Cannabis Social Clubs?
Cannabis social clubs, also known as cannabis cultivation clubs, are not-for-profit organizations that have been authorized to grow and distribute cannabis in limited amounts.
Germany isn’t the first in Europe to introduce cannabis social clubs. Malta led the way by officially launching regulated clubs, and Germany’s model closely follows this approach.
If you’re considering starting or joining a cannabis club, here are some key rules you need to know
Key Membership Regulations
A German cannabis social club can only accommodate up to 500 members. Only German residents who have lived in the country for longer than six (6) months and have reached the age of 18 can join one.
A member has to stay with the club for a minimum of three (3) months, and cannot be part of multiple social clubs at one time. There is no fixed membership fee for cannabis clubs.
The club’s representative must prove their ability to handle cannabis, cannabis seeds, and cannabis cuttings.
Consumption and Quantity Limits
Licensed clubs can only distribute cannabis in its purest form, like dried cannabis flower. This means cannabis social clubs can’t distribute processed cannabis products.
Members over 21 years of age can get 25 grams of cannabis per day and up to 50 grams per month from their club. For those 21 years old and below, only 30 grams of cannabis containing less than ten percent THC per month is allowed.
As per German laws on weed, members cannot sell or give away cannabis to other people. Members also can’t consume cannabis in the cultivation area or a distance of 100 meters from its entrance.
Production and Distribution Rules
Since cannabis clubs are not-for-profit, membership fees need to cover the cultivation expenses. Here are some of the other production and distribution rules:
- Cultivation operations (like watering, and trimming) need to be done by members. Cultivation sites must maintain a minimum distance of 200 meters from schools, playgrounds, and other facilities for children and young people.
- They must not be near other greenhouses belonging to other cultivation groups.
- The amount of cannabis cultivated and harvested can only be enough to cover the consumption needs of the members.
- Cannabis clubs are not allowed to ship or deliver cannabis to members.
- Advertising, marketing, or sponsoring in any form is prohibited.
If any rules or regulations are not followed, your club’s license could be revoked.
What’s Next for the German Cannabis Market
Germany weed legalization is gaining momentum. CanG and cannabis social clubs have only been in the country for a short time, but it won’t be long until other countries follow suit.
The removal of cannabis from the Narcotic Act is likely to open up many research possibilities focusing on German medical cannabis. Now that possession and cultivation are no longer crimes, many with cannabis-related charges are being considered for record expungement or sentence reductions.
As the demand for legal cannabis remains high, many are hoping for a faster implementation of the program. Germany weed legalization is still very new, and cannabis social club licensees and applicants want to get a more comprehensive grasp about the ins and outs of it.
Why Work With CannDelta?
Securing a cannabis social club license in Germany is a highly competitive process, with only the most thoroughly prepared and compliant applications receiving approval. To maximize your chances of success, it’s essential to have expert guidance throughout the licensing journey.
CannDelta’s cannabis licensing specialists have supported the successful launch of over 350 cannabis businesses globally. Our comprehensive, turnkey services ensure your application is complete, accurate, and meets all regulatory requirements. From preparing your application to assisting with operational setup and compliance, we’re with you every step of the way—ensuring your social club is positioned for long-term success.
Ready to get started? Contact CannDelta today to learn how we can help you secure your cannabis social club license in Germany!
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Marijuana Legalized in Germany?
Yes. As of April 1, 2024, through the German laws on weed changed with the Cannabis Act, German residents may consume marijuana for recreational use, with a few restrictions.
Can You Smoke Weed in Public in Germany?
You cannot smoke weed in public in Germany if you are near a minor (below 18 years old), near schools and other institutions for children and the youth, in publicly accessible sports facilities, in pedestrian zones between 7 to 8 pm, and within or near cultivation areas of cannabis social clubs.
Is Buying and Smoking CBD Allowed in Germany?
You can buy and smoke CBD in Germany as long as they contain less than 0.2% THC. It’s legal based on German and EU regulations.
How Big is the German Medical Cannabis Market?
Germany legalized medical marijuana in 2017, and has since then, grown its patient base to over 200,000. In addition, based on a market study, medical sales in the German cannabis market are reported to reach roughly $500 million in 2024 and even reach over $1 billion in 2028.
