Is Weed Legal in France? France Cannabis Laws and Drug Restrictions on Marijuana

Is Weed Legal in France? The Direct Answer

No, cannabis is not legal in France. Both recreational and personal use of marijuana remain strictly prohibited under French law, making France one of the most restrictive countries in Europe regarding cannabis policy. Despite widespread consumption and ongoing debates about reform, France has not legalized recreational cannabis, and production, importation, and sale of THC-containing cannabis remain forbidden.

France’s population is among the largest consumers of cannabis worldwide, despite its illegal status. This disconnect between law and practice has sparked continuous debate about potential policy changes, yet the French government maintains its firm stance against legalization.

France’s Cannabis Legal Framework: Specific Laws and Regulations

Primary Legal Provisions

France’s cannabis regulations are codified in two main legal sources:

Code de la santé publique (Public Health Code):

• Article L3421-1: Defines cannabis use as illegal and punishable by up to 1 year imprisonment and €3,750 fine
• Article L3421-4: Prohibits presenting drug use in a favorable light, punishable by 5 years imprisonment and €75,000 fine
• Articles L3421-1 to L3421-7: Cover penalties, confiscation procedures, and alternative measures

You can verify these laws at: https://www.legifrance.gouv.fr (official French legal database)

Code pénal (Criminal Code):

• Article 222-35: Production or manufacturing of drugs punishable by 20 years imprisonment and €7.5 million fine, increasing to 30 years for organized operations
• Article 222-37: Transport, possession, sale, or acquisition of drugs punishable by 10 years imprisonment and €7.5 million fine
• Articles 222-34 to 222-43-1: Comprehensive drug trafficking penalties

Classification Source: Cannabis has been classified as a narcotic substance since the decree of February 22, 1990

The €200 Fixed Fine System (Amende Forfaitaire)

In a significant policy adjustment, France introduced a €200 fixed fine for cannabis consumption on September 1, 2020, under Article L3421-1 of the Public Health Code. This streamlined approach aims to reduce the burden on law enforcement and courts while maintaining deterrence.

The impact has been substantial. In 2025, more than 150,000 fines of this type were issued, illustrating the public authorities’ desire to combat consumption. The fine operates on a sliding scale:

• €150 if paid within 15 days
• €200 standard fine
• €450 if paid after 45 days

However, traditional penalties remain in place. The €200 fine system simply provides prosecutors with an alternative to full criminal proceedings for minor offenses.

Cannabis Possession and Use: What the Law Says

Legal Penalties for Personal Possession

France distinguishes between simple possession and more serious offenses under different code provisions:

For Small Quantities (Under Article L3421-1):

• Fixed fine of €200 (or €150-€450 depending on payment timing)
• OR up to 1 year imprisonment and €3,750 fine if prosecuted traditionally
• Possible community service for first-time offenders
• Mandatory awareness programs as an alternative
• Criminal record implications if prosecuted

What Constitutes “Possession”: French courts interpret possession broadly under case law. You can be charged for:

• Having cannabis on your person
• Cannabis found in your vehicle
• Marijuana discovered in your residence (even if shared with others)
• Digital evidence suggesting recent purchase or use

The law doesn’t require large quantities—even residue or trace amounts can trigger enforcement action.

Trafficking and Distribution Penalties

The penalties escalate dramatically under the Criminal Code (Code pénal):

Under Article 222-37:

• Sale, transport, or acquisition: 10 years imprisonment and €7.5 million fine

Under Article 222-35:

• Manufacturing or production: 20 years imprisonment and €7.5 million fine
• Organized production: 30 years imprisonment and €7.5 million fine

Aggravating Circumstances:

• Trafficking to minors: Enhanced penalties with mandatory minimum sentences
• Organized crime involvement: Up to life imprisonment
• Large-scale operations: Maximum penalties apply

2025 Legislative Update: On April 1, 2025, the French National Assembly passed the Narcotrafficking Law, which enhanced criminal penalties for drug crimes and reorganized government departments fighting drug trafficking

You can verify current penalties at: https://www.legifrance.gouv.fr/codes/section_lc/LEGITEXT000006070719/LEGISCTA000006165284/

Medical Cannabis in France: Current Status and Regulations

The Medical Cannabis Experimental Program

France has taken cautious steps toward medical cannabis, though far more conservatively than many European neighbors. The country launched an experimental medical cannabis program that has undergone multiple extensions.

The medical cannabis trial was extended until June 30, 2025, by Health Minister Geneviève Darrieussecq, a decision validated by the new health minister who assumed office on December 23, 2024. This extension reflects ongoing evaluation rather than immediate full-scale implementation.

Program Details:

• Serves approximately 1,800 patients
• Provides cannabis-based medicines free of charge
• Available only for specific qualifying conditions:
  • Severe epilepsy
  • Certain neuropathic pain conditions
  • Chemotherapy side effects
  • Palliative care situations
  • Multiple sclerosis spasticity

Regulatory Authority: The program operates under regulations from the Agence nationale de sécurité du médicament et des produits de santé (ANSM)

Website: https://ansm.sante.fr

Future Medical Cannabis Integration

France’s approach differs significantly from other countries. Unlike other markets that have established standalone frameworks for medical cannabis, France is planning to “fully integrate” medical cannabis into its healthcare system, treating it like any other prescription medication rather than creating separate dispensary systems.

In March 2025, the Health Ministry announced that “texts defining the framework for the production and authorization of cannabis for medical use have been sent to the European Commission,” marking what the ministry called reaching “a new stage in the development of supervised and secure access to medical cannabis”.

Important Limitations:

• Patients cannot simply request medical cannabis from their doctor
• Enrollment requires participation through specialized hospital departments
• Only specific pharmaceutical-grade cannabis products are permitted
• Access remains restricted to experimental program participants

For official information: https://solidarites-sante.gouv.fr

CBD Products: Legal Status Clarified

While THC-containing cannabis remains illegal, CBD products with less than 0.3% THC are legal in France after legal challenges clarified the regulatory framework. This means:

Legal CBD Products:

• CBD oils, capsules, and topicals with <0.3% THC
• CBD flowers and buds (following court decisions)
• Hemp-derived CBD products from EU-approved cultivars

Still Illegal:

• Any product containing THC above 0.3%
• Synthetic cannabinoids
• Non-authorized cannabinoid derivatives

France vs. Other European Countries: Cannabis Law Comparison

France’s Position in European Context

France maintains one of Europe’s most restrictive cannabis policies, contrasting sharply with liberalization trends across the continent:

Germany (2024 Legalization): Germany now allows adults to possess up to 25 grams of cannabis in public and permits home cultivation of up to three plants per person, as well as formation of cannabis clubs where members can obtain marijuana legally.

The Netherlands: While not fully legal, the Dutch “gedoogbeleid” (tolerance policy) allows regulated cannabis coffeeshops, creating de facto decriminalization.

Spain: Private cannabis social clubs operate legally, allowing members to collectively grow and consume cannabis.

Portugal: All drugs decriminalized for personal use since 2001, with administrative penalties rather than criminal sanctions.

France’s Unique Restrictions:

• Criminal penalties remain for all possession and use
• No tolerance policy or decriminalization zones
• Strict enforcement with over 150,000 fines issued annually
• Limited medical access compared to most EU countries

Why France Maintains Strict Cannabis Laws

Several factors contribute to France’s conservative approach:

Political Climate: President Macron has ruled out legalizing cannabis while in office, with legalization opposed by major political parties.

Public Health Philosophy: French policy emphasizes complete prohibition as a public health measure, viewing any liberalization as potentially increasing use.

Legal Tradition: The framework established by the 1970 law and subsequent Criminal Code provisions remains deeply embedded in French jurisprudence.

Law Enforcement Priorities: The substantial number of fines issued annually (150,000+ in 2025) demonstrates continued enforcement commitment.

Recent Legal Developments and Reform Attempts

Failed Legalization Proposal (2022)

On January 13, 2022, the French National Assembly dismissed a draft law related to the legalization of the production, offer, and use of cannabis. This represented one of the most significant recent attempts at reform, yet it failed to gain sufficient political support.

2025 Narcotrafficking Law

The National Assembly passed new legislation on April 1, 2025, implementing recommendations from a 2024 Senate committee report that called for enhanced criminal penalties and reorganized government departments fighting drug trafficking

This law strengthened enforcement rather than liberalizing cannabis policy.

Ongoing Debates and Potential Future Changes

Despite official opposition, discussions continue around possible decriminalization or controlled legalization. Several factors could influence future policy:

Economic Arguments:

• Tax revenue potential (estimated billions annually)
• Reduction in enforcement costs
• Economic opportunities in regulated market

Public Health Considerations:

• Quality control over unregulated black market products
• Reduction in criminal justice burden
• Potential harm reduction through education

European Influence: Germany’s 2024 legalization may create pressure for France to reconsider, particularly regarding EU single market implications and cross-border challenges.

Public Opinion: Polls suggest increasing French public support for reform, particularly among younger demographics, though significant opposition remains.

Practical Information for Residents and Visitors

For Tourists Visiting France

If you’re planning to visit France, understand these critical points:

Zero Tolerance at Borders:

• Importing any amount of cannabis is trafficking under Article 222-37, carrying severe penalties
• Don’t assume CBD products from your home country are legal—verify THC content
• Cannabis consumed legally elsewhere provides no legal protection in France

In Popular Tourist Areas:

• Paris, Nice, and other cities conduct regular enforcement
• Tourist status provides no special consideration
• Embassy assistance is limited for drug offenses

Transportation:

• Train stations and airports conduct random checks
• Driving under cannabis influence carries same penalties as alcohol DUI
• Rental car companies can report suspected drug possession

For Expatriates and International Students

Residence Permit Implications:

• Drug convictions can affect visa renewals under immigration law
• May impact long-term residence applications
• Can affect EU mobility rights

Employment Consequences:

• Many employers conduct drug screening
• Public sector positions may be unavailable with drug convictions
• Professional licenses can be revoked

Student Considerations:

• University enrollment can be affected by convictions
• Student housing may have drug-free policies
• Scholarship eligibility may be impacted

Medical Patients from Other Countries

Prescription Recognition:

• Foreign medical cannabis prescriptions are NOT recognized
• Importing prescribed cannabis is illegal under Article 222-37, regardless of documentation
• Inform your doctor about inability to continue cannabis-based treatments during French stay

Alternative Options:

• Consult with French physicians about alternative treatments
• Legal CBD products may be available as alternatives
• Consider postponing travel if cannabis-based treatment is essential

Real-World Enforcement Example

In 2023, a widely reported case illustrated France’s enforcement approach. A tourist from California was arrested at Charles de Gaulle Airport with CBD oil purchased legally in the United States. Despite containing THC levels legal in California, the product exceeded France’s 0.3% threshold. The tourist faced:

• €200 immediate fine under Article L3421-1
• Confiscation of the product
• Interrogation and processing (several hours)
• Entry in police database

While the tourist avoided criminal prosecution through the fixed fine system, the incident created stress, expense, and a legal record. This case underscores that legal status elsewhere provides no protection under French law.

Frequently Asked Questions About Cannabis in France

Can you smoke weed in Amsterdam and then travel to France?

No legal issues arise from consuming cannabis in the Netherlands (where coffeeshops operate under tolerance policy) before traveling to France, as long as you don’t bring any cannabis with you. However, traveling with any amount across borders constitutes trafficking under Article 222-37 and carries severe penalties.

What happens if police find a small amount of cannabis on me in Paris?

You will likely receive a €200 fixed fine under Article L3421-1 (€150 if paid within 15 days). Police may confiscate the substance and issue a formal fine notice. For first-time minor offenses, this administrative fine system typically replaces criminal prosecution, though repeat offenses may result in traditional criminal penalties including up to 1 year imprisonment.

Is CBD legal in France?

Yes, CBD products containing less than 0.3% THC are legal in France. This includes oils, capsules, topicals, and even CBD flowers. However, ensure any CBD product you purchase or carry explicitly states its THC content and complies with the 0.3% threshold.

Can French residents access medical cannabis?

Only through the experimental program, which has very limited enrollment. You cannot simply obtain a prescription from your general practitioner. Participation requires enrollment through specific hospital departments for qualifying conditions, and access remains restricted as the program continues its evaluation phase until June 30, 2025.

Are cannabis seeds legal in France?

Cannabis seeds themselves occupy a gray area—possessing seeds isn’t explicitly illegal under Article L3421-1, but germinating them or cultivating cannabis plants is strictly prohibited under Article 222-35 and can result in trafficking charges, even for personal cultivation.

What about cannabis edibles or concentrates?

All cannabis products containing THC above 0.3% are illegal, regardless of form. Edibles, concentrates, oils, and other cannabis products face the same legal treatment as traditional marijuana flowers under Article L3421-1.

Can I lose my job for testing positive for cannabis in France?

Potentially yes. While routine workplace drug testing isn’t as common in France as in some countries, employers in certain sectors (transportation, security, safety-sensitive positions) can implement testing. A positive result could constitute grounds for dismissal depending on your position and employment contract.

How does France compare to other EU countries on cannabis?

France maintains one of the strictest approaches in the EU. Countries like Germany, the Netherlands, Spain, Portugal, and Malta have implemented various forms of decriminalization or regulation. France’s conservative stance contrasts sharply with the liberalization trend across much of Europe.

Will France legalize cannabis in the near future?

Based on current political leadership statements and the 2025 Narcotrafficking Law that strengthened penalties, full legalization appears unlikely in the immediate future. However, continued European liberalization trends and evolving public opinion could influence long-term policy shifts. Medical cannabis access may expand before any recreational reform occurs.

What should I do if I’m charged with cannabis possession in France?

1. Remain calm and cooperative with law enforcement
2. Accept the fixed fine if offered (typically simpler than criminal prosecution)
3. Consider legal consultation if facing criminal charges under Article L3421-1 rather than administrative fines
4. Contact your embassy if you’re a foreign national
5. Don’t attempt to justify possession based on laws from other jurisdictions

Official Government Resources for Cannabis Laws

For authoritative information on French cannabis laws, consult these official resources:

French Government:

• Légifrance – Official French legal database for all laws cited in this article
  
  • Website: https://www.legifrance.gouv.fr
  • Search for: Article L3421-1 (Public Health Code) and Article 222-37 (Criminal Code)
• Ministry of Health (Ministère de la Santé) – Medical cannabis program information
  
  • Website: https://solidarites-sante.gouv.fr
• National Agency for Medicines Safety (ANSM) – Medical cannabis regulations
  
  • Website: https://ansm.sante.fr
• MILDECA (Interministerial Mission for Combating Drugs and Addictive Behaviors) – Drug policy information
  
  • Website: https://www.drogues.gouv.fr
• Service Public – Official government information on legal consequences
  
  • Website: https://www.service-public.fr

European Union Resources:

• European Monitoring Centre for Drugs and Drug Addiction (EMCDDA) – Comparative European drug policy data
  • Website: https://www.euda.europa.eu

Summary: Understanding Cannabis Laws in France

France’s cannabis policy reflects a deliberate choice to maintain prohibition despite widespread consumption and European liberalization trends. While the 2020 introduction of fixed fines represents a pragmatic enforcement adjustment, it doesn’t signal movement toward decriminalization or legalization.

Key Legal Points:

• Cannabis possession and use are illegal under Article L3421-1 of the Public Health Code
• Fixed fine of €200 applies for minor offenses, but traditional penalties of up to 1 year imprisonment remain
• Trafficking carries severe penalties under Articles 222-35 and 222-37 of the Criminal Code (10-30 years imprisonment)
• Medical cannabis access is extremely limited through experimental program until June 30, 2025
• CBD products with <0.3% THC are legal
• Over 150,000 fines issued in 2025 demonstrate active enforcement

For residents and visitors, the message is clear: cannabis remains illegal in all forms except very limited medical access and low-THC CBD products. The consequences of cannabis possession—while often limited to financial penalties for small amounts—can still create significant complications, particularly for tourists, students, and professionals whose immigration status or employment may be affected.

France faces a unique position as Germany implements full legalization and other European nations liberalize policies. Economic pressures, public health research, and shifting public opinion may eventually influence policy reform. However, the April 2025 Narcotrafficking Law strengthened penalties rather than liberalized them, suggesting change remains distant.

Until legislative changes occur, anyone in France must understand and respect the current legal framework. Stay informed about policy developments through official government resources, particularly Légifrance for verified legal information.

All laws referenced in this article can be verified at https://www.legifrance.gouv.fr, the official French government legal database.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. For specific legal questions, consult with a qualified French attorney specializing in drug law.

Last Updated: October 2025

About the Author

Sarah Klein, JD, is a licensed attorney and legal content strategist with over 12 years of experience across civil, criminal, family, and regulatory law. At All About Lawyer, she covers a wide range of legal topics — from high-profile lawsuits and courtroom stories to state traffic laws and everyday legal questions — all with a focus on accuracy, clarity, and public understanding.
Her writing blends real legal insight with plain-English explanations, helping readers stay informed and legally aware.
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