Cannabis rules 2025: Consumption, possession & driving
What the cannabis law means in everyday life – with a focus on edibles, public consumption and driving.
Introduction: Between freedom of enjoyment and law
With the legalization of cannabis in Germany, many things have become easier – but not everything is clear. There is still a lot of uncertainty, especially regarding dosage , consumption in public , and driving after consumption . Here you can find out what you are generally allowed to do according to current legislation, what remains prohibited, and where caution is advised.
Important: This article is an easy-to-understand summary of practical experience and does not replace legal advice. Rules and administrative practices are subject to change.
1. Possession & Dosage – How much is allowed?
The following basic rules are particularly relevant in everyday life:
- You are allowed to possess up to 25g of cannabis in public.
- Up to 50g may be kept at home.
- You are allowed to grow up to 3 female plants privately.
These amounts refer to dried flowers . Once cannabis is processed into a food or concentrate , the THC content , not the weight, is what matters for risk and effect.
Practical guideline (Safer Use):
For many recreational users, edibles typically contain around 5–10 mg of THC per serving.
(Beginners especially should start at a significantly lower temperature and wait long enough.)
2. Consumption – where am I even allowed to do that?
Even though cannabis is legal, you are not allowed to consume it everywhere .
Typical no-go zones (examples):
- near schools, daycare centers, playgrounds (observe social distancing rules)
- in pedestrian zones at certain times (observe local/legal rules)
- in the presence of minors
- in enclosed spaces of public institutions
Consumption is typically possible at home or on private property – provided that no minors are present and no public nuisance is caused.
3. Driving – the toughest limit remains
Driving remains the biggest legal risk factor associated with cannabis use. The decisive factor is the THC level in the blood serum – and this can be relevant even if you feel "fit".
Current limit value (general):
Anyone driving with a THC level of 3.5 ng/ml or higher typically risks sanctions (fine/driving ban/points).
Mixed consumption (cannabis + alcohol) is judged much more strictly.
New drivers / under 21:
Stricter rules apply here – practically speaking, it amounts to 0.0 / “nothing in the blood” (the analytical limit remains relevant).
Why edibles are particularly treacherous
- delayed onset of action (often 30–120 minutes)
- longer duration of effect and therefore a longer risk of still having measurable values.
4. How long is THC detectable?
This depends heavily on the type of consumption, dose, and frequency . Important: "no longer high" does not automatically mean "legally safe".
| Consumption style | Onset of effect | Notice |
|---|---|---|
| Joint/Vape | 1–10 min | The effect is faster, but the values can still remain relevant for longer. |
| Edible | 30–120 min | Long-lasting effect, longer risk of still measurable values. |
| regular consumption | – | THC breakdown can take significantly longer. |
5. Public Consumption & Fines
Anyone consuming cannabis in prohibited zones risks a fine. The amount and application of the fine vary depending on the state and situation. Even with legal possession limits, cannabis can be confiscated if you violate consumption regulations.
6. Work & Responsibility
Cannabis use remains a sensitive issue in the workplace. Employers are permitted to impose strict rules for safety-critical tasks (e.g., operating machinery, vehicles, or providing care). Those who work under the influence risk a warning or dismissal – legal does not automatically mean neutral under labor law.
7. Conclusion: Legal does not mean unlimited
- Owning and growing your own food: possible within the rules.
- Public consumption: clearly restricted (restricted zones/times/youth protection).
- Driving remains the biggest risk – especially after consuming edibles.
Edibles, in particular, require special care because their effects are delayed and last longer . Responsibility here is not about moralizing – it's about self-protection.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How much THC can I consume without experiencing problems?
There is no fixed "legally safe" THC level. The situation becomes particularly critical with regard to driving, youth protection laws, and prohibited consumption locations. As a safer-use guideline, many recreational doses are around 5–10 mg of THC, while beginners start with significantly lower amounts.
How long after eating an edible can I drive again?
Conservative: drive long enough to ensure you're no longer under the influence – and even then, your blood alcohol level might still be relevant. Edibles have a long-lasting effect, and the limit is strict. When in doubt: don't drive.
Am I allowed to eat edibles in public, e.g. in the park?
Restricted zones, youth protection laws, and local/legal regulations are crucial. Public consumption is not automatically permitted everywhere.
Does driving a car the next morning still count as driving under the influence?
Yes, that can be relevant. Especially after edibles or regular consumption, levels can remain measurable for longer – even if you feel sober.
Note: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Laws and administrative practices are subject to change; if in doubt, consult a lawyer or the relevant authorities.
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