Germany’s cannabis reform in 2024 brought some big changes, and cities like Braunschweig have felt the effects. While local adults gained some new freedoms, visitors still face strict limits. This guide covers what you need to know if you’re living in or visiting Braunschweig and wondering about weed rules.

Summary of Key Points

• Adults 18 and over can legally possess small amounts of cannabis.
• Growing up to three plants per adult is allowed at home.
• Visitors can’t legally buy or use cannabis.
• Public smoking is limited by location and time.
• Driving under the influence remains illegal.

Cannabis Law Changes in Braunschweig

Following the national changes in 2024, Braunschweig now allows adults to possess up to 25 grams in public and up to 50 grams at home. Residents can also grow three cannabis plants per adult in their household. However, retail cannabis remains banned until the rollout of official cannabis clubs, expected later in 2025.

Where You Can and Can’t Smoke in Braunschweig

Though cannabis is partly legal now, smoking in public isn’t free of rules. There are strict limits:

• No smoking within 100 meters of schools, daycare centers, and youth facilities.
• Banned in pedestrian zones from 7 AM to 8 PM.
• Restricted near sports facilities, public transit areas, and public parks with kids.

Authorities in Braunschweig take these rules seriously, especially in busy areas like the city center and near universities.

What Tourists Should Know

Although the reform changed rules for locals, visitors can’t legally buy, carry, or smoke cannabis in Braunschweig—or anywhere else in Germany. Here’s why:

• The law only applies to people who have lived in Germany for over six months.
• Weed clubs are not open to tourists.
• Getting caught with weed as a visitor can result in fines or legal trouble.

In short, if you’re just visiting, avoid cannabis and focus on exploring the city’s museums, parks, and historic sites instead.

How Braunschweig Enforces Weed Laws

Braunschweig police actively enforce cannabis laws, with frequent checks in high-risk areas. Although carrying small amounts may not lead to jail time, it can still bring fines—especially if you light up in a restricted area.

• Tourists found with weed can face legal issues.
• Public smoking in banned zones will likely lead to fines.
• Possession near schools or stations brings heavier penalties.

Driving and Cannabis in Braunschweig

Just like in the rest of Germany, driving after using cannabis is a serious offense. A new THC limit is in the works, but until then, strict rules apply:

• Any THC in your system while driving can bring fines or worse.
• New drivers face even tighter restrictions.
• Combining alcohol and weed can lead to license loss.

Play it safe: don’t drive if you’ve used cannabis, even if it’s legal at home.

Final Thoughts: Weed in Braunschweig

Living in Braunschweig means you now have more freedom when it comes to cannabis, but that doesn’t mean anything goes. The law draws clear lines between what residents can do and what tourists can’t. Follow the rules, stay aware of the restrictions, and avoid trouble whether you live here or are just passing through.

FAQs

Is cannabis legal in Braunschweig for residents?

Yes. Adults 18+ can hold up to 25 grams in public, grow three plants, and keep 50 grams at home.

Can visitors use or buy cannabis in Braunschweig?

No. The new laws only apply to people who have lived in Germany for over six months.

Can I smoke weed in public?

Only in places that aren’t restricted. Smoking near schools, stations, or in pedestrian areas during daytime is not allowed.

What happens if police catch a tourist with weed?

Tourists may face a fine, confiscation of the cannabis, or legal charges depending on the situation.