Cannabis is to be legalized in Germany in the future. The current draft law (April, 2023) by Cem Özdemir (Greens) and Karl Lauterbach (SPD) provides for the cultivation and distribution of cannabis in cannabis clubs or so-called “cannabis social clubs” to be approved. It has not yet been clarified when exactly cannabis cultivation will be possible in cannabis clubs and remains to be seen. You can find out what a cannabis club is, which rules will apply in the future and how you can become a member of one here.
If you are interested in the current legal situation regarding cannabis consumption and cultivation and would like to know what legalization could look like, take a look at our blog post on “Cannabis cultivation in Germany”.
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What is a cannabis association?
There are a few synonyms for cannabis clubs that you have probably heard recently. Names such as Cannabis Social Club (CSC), Cannabis Club or Marijuana Club are often used in this context.
Cannabis clubs are to be founded as non-profit associations. In the future, it should be legal to grow cannabis in an organized manner in the clubs and to distribute it to the club members. The current status is that the clubs can supply cannabis seeds, cuttings and flowers to adult members.
So if you want to consume cannabis in the future, you can become a member of a cannabis social club or set up your own. At least that is what the current draft law provides for.
What rules apply in cannabis clubs?
It is not yet entirely clear which rules will ultimately apply in and for the marijuana clubs, as legalization is still in the planning stage. According to the current draft, the following rules will apply:
Cannabis clubs may only dispense cannabis to their members. Persons who cannot identify themselves as members will be prohibited from dispensing cannabis. In addition, each club may accept a maximum number of 500 people. Cannabis social clubs must also adhere to the ban on advertising for the club. As cannabis clubs are not allowed to make a profit, they should be able to finance themselves through membership fees.
In addition, there should be rules regarding the quantity dispensed. For example, clubs are allowed to supply their members with a maximum of 25 g at a time and a maximum of 50 g per month.
Furthermore, cannabis clubs may not commission third parties to grow hemp and only as much may be grown as is needed to cover demand. Quality standards and controls are intended to ensure safety. In addition, the clubs are not allowed to sell or supply any other goods besides cannabis, such as tobacco and alcohol.
Who can become a member of the Cannabis Social Club?
If you want to become a member of a cannabis social club, you must be resident in Germany and at least 18 years old. In addition, you may only be a member of one club. Membership in several clubs at the same time is not permitted. Minors are prohibited from becoming members of a cannabis club. There are also to be further restrictions for people under the age of 21, such as a maximum quantity of 30 grams per month.
How can I set up a cannabis association?
If you want to found a cannabis club, this will probably be similar to founding another association and you will have to adhere to the principles of association law. According to the federal government, you are allowed to found a cannabis club as an adult if your reliability has been successfully checked and you have no criminal record.
It is important that you already have 7 members when founding an association. This is because when you draw up your association statutes, these must be signed by the 7 members. You need the articles of association in order to be registered as an association. So find out what all belongs in such a constitution. When founding the cannabis club, it is also important to appoint an association board and decide on a name for the club. Before you can register your club in the register of associations, you must have the non-profit status of your club checked by the tax office. A little tip: If you need more information about founding an association, take a look at the ENCOD’s founding instructions.
Once your club has been founded and entered in the register, it is important that you always adhere to the applicable rules for cannabis clubs when operating the club.
Bonsanto sponsors cannabis associations
Do you have a cannabis social club and are you looking for a sponsor? Then you’ve come to the right place! We have years of experience in the cannabis grow sector and would be delighted to support your club! Simply contact us via our contact form.
We will take over the sponsorship of your club and offer you our experience and knowledge in the cultivation of hemp. We provide your club with the necessary grow equipment and help you with the cultivation so that you can achieve the best yields.
If you have a cannabis club and are interested in being sponsored by us, please contact us. We are ready to work with you and help you realize your projects.