Machine-translated from German. The original is the source of truth.
Frequently Asked Questions about Cannabis in Germany
Everything you need to know about cannabis in Germany – concise, understandable, and based on the current legal status. Since the partial legalization through the KCanG, many practical questions have arisen for adults: What is allowed, what remains forbidden, how do Cannabis Social Clubs work, how does a medical prescription work, and what should you consider regarding strains, dosage, and consumption methods? This FAQ is designed exactly for that purpose.
On this page, we answer the most important questions about possession, consumption, home cultivation, medical cannabis, prescriptions, terpenes, and product selection. Instead of just explaining individual terms, we give you a practical overview for everyday life in Germany. This way, you can quickly assess which rules are relevant to you, what differences there are between medical cannabis and recreational use, and what basics you should know before delving deeper into strains, edibles, or social clubs.
It is particularly important to us to present complex topics in an understandable way. Many users are not just looking for a yes-or-no answer, but for guidance: What are the requirements for a prescription? Why do THC, CBD, and terpenes play such a big role? How do inhaled products differ from edibles? And what limits does the law set for home cultivation? Our FAQ consolidates these basics in one place and links to further content if needed, so you can delve deeper depending on your interest.
What you will find in this FAQ
an understandable overview of the current cannabis legal situation in Germany,
basics on medical cannabis, prescriptions, and possible cost coverage,
aids for classifying strains, cannabinoids, and terpene profiles,
important information on edibles, decarboxylation, and careful dosing,
answers regarding Cannabis Social Clubs and their legal framework,
practical information on private home cultivation and the permitted limits.
We update this page regularly as legal frameworks, political debates, or medical standards change. For deeper insights, we recommend our Guides, the KCanG Guide, our News section, and the page Become a patient. Please note: This FAQ provides well-founded guidance, but it does not replace individual legal advice or medical diagnosis. Especially for medical application, interactions, or therapy decisions, you should always consult a qualified professional.
General
HighSpace is your comprehensive cannabis portal for Germany. We offer current news, a strain catalog, recipes, guides, and a product finder – all about legal cannabis.
As of April 1, 2024, cannabis is partially legalized for adults in Germany. Possession of up to 25g in public and 50g at home, as well as home cultivation of up to 3 plants, are permitted. Commercial sale is not yet allowed.
The KCanG regulates private home cultivation, possession, and consumption of cannabis for adults, as well as communal cultivation in Cannabis Social Clubs. It came into force on April 1, 2024.
Consumption is generally allowed, but not in the immediate vicinity of schools, kindergartens, playgrounds, and public sports facilities. In pedestrian zones, consumption is also prohibited between 7 AM and 8 PM.
Medical Cannabis
You need a medical prescription. Many doctors and telemedicine platforms can prescribe cannabis. Costs are covered by health insurance for certain diagnoses. On our 'Become a patient' page, you will find a step-by-step guide.
Cannabis is prescribed for chronic pain, spasticity (e.g., multiple sclerosis), chemotherapy-induced nausea, loss of appetite, ADHD, anxiety disorders, and sleep disorders, among others. The decision is made by your treating physician.
Yes, under certain conditions. Since 2017, statutory insured persons can apply for cost coverage from their health insurance. The prerequisites are a serious illness and that other therapies have been exhausted.
Medical cannabis is grown under controlled conditions, lab-tested, and dispensed through pharmacies. It is subject to strict quality standards (GMP). Recreational cannabis from home cultivation or social clubs does not have these controls.
Strains & Products
Traditionally, Indica is associated with relaxing, physical effects and Sativa with energizing, cerebral effects. Scientifically, the distinction is controversial – the terpene profile and the THC/CBD ratio are more decisive for the effect.
Terpenes are aromatic compounds in cannabis that are responsible for its smell and taste. They also influence the effect (entourage effect). Well-known terpenes include myrcene (relaxing), limonene (mood-lifting), and linalool (calming).
Use our Cannabis Sommelier or the Product Finder. There you can filter by desired effect, taste, and THC/CBD content. For medical purposes, you should always consult your doctor.
Recipes & Consumption
Decarboxylation is a heating process that converts THCA into psychoactive THC. Without this step, cannabis consumed orally will not have an intoxicating effect. Standard: 110 °C for approx. 40 minutes in the oven.
Cannabutter is butter infused with cannabis – the base for most cannabis edibles. The THC dissolves in the fat of the butter. You can find a detailed guide in our recipes section.
Always start with a low dose (2.5–5 mg THC) and wait at least 90 minutes for the effects. Edibles have a delayed onset but are more intense and last longer than inhalation. Slowly increase the dose over several sessions.
Cannabis Social Clubs
Cannabis Social Clubs (CSCs) are registered associations in which a maximum of 500 members can collectively cultivate and distribute cannabis among themselves. Distribution to non-members is prohibited. CSCs are not allowed to advertise.
You must be at least 18 years old, be domiciled in Germany, and can only be a member of one club at a time. Clubs can set their own admission criteria. Contact a club near you directly.
Home Cultivation
Adults are allowed to grow up to three flowering plants simultaneously. Cultivation must take place in one's own residence and be protected from access by minors. Seeds and cuttings can be obtained through social clubs or from other EU countries.
No, sharing privately cultivated cannabis with other people is prohibited – even without payment. Only within Cannabis Social Clubs is communal distribution to members permitted.