Is Weed Legal in Paris?

Paris may be a city known for its art, freedom, and café culture, but when it comes to cannabis, French law is strict. If you're wondering “is weed legal in Paris?” the short answer is no—cannabis is illegal in France for recreational use, and that includes the capital.

While attitudes may be slowly shifting, and penalties are lighter than in years past, using or possessing cannabis in Paris can still lead to fines, arrest, or worse. Here’s a detailed guide to what is and isn’t allowed in the City of Light.

Is Cannabis Legal in France?

France has one of the most restrictive cannabis policies in Western Europe. Under French narcotics law, cannabis is a prohibited substance.

• Recreational cannabis is illegal

• Possession and use are criminal offences

• Sale, trafficking, or cultivation are serious crimes

• Only a limited medical cannabis trial is ongoing as of 2025

This applies across the country, including Paris, where police actively enforce drug laws—especially in public areas.

Recreational Use: Still Illegal

Although France introduced on-the-spot fines for simple cannabis use in 2020, it hasn’t decriminalised it. That means:

• Possession of cannabis (even small amounts) is still a criminal offence

• First-time users may be issued a fixed fine of €200, but repeat offences or larger quantities can lead to arrest and prosecution

• Smoking cannabis in public—especially in parks, near schools, or at events—may attract police attention

In Paris, public use is fairly common in nightlife spots or among youth culture, but that doesn’t mean it’s legal or safe.

What Are the Penalties?

French police have the authority to stop, search, and fine individuals for cannabis use or possession.

Medical Cannabis in France

France does not currently have a fully legal medical cannabis programme, but a nationwide trial launched in 2021 has expanded gradually.

• The programme allows limited use of cannabis-based medicines for patients with conditions like:

  • Chronic pain

  • Epilepsy

  • Multiple sclerosis

  • Side effects of cancer treatment

• Only specialist doctors can prescribe cannabis products under strict controls

• Products include oils, capsules, and oral sprays, not raw flower

• Tourists cannot access medical cannabis legally in France

While full legalisation of medical cannabis has been discussed, as of 2025, the system remains experimental and highly restricted.

What About CBD?

CBD (cannabidiol) is legal in France if:

• It contains less than 0.3% THC

• It is derived from approved EU hemp strains

• It is not marketed as a medical product

CBD oils, gummies, vapes, and skincare are widely available in Paris, sold in wellness shops and pharmacies.

CBD flowers and buds are a grey area. Although non-psychoactive, they look and smell like cannabis and may be mistaken for illegal weed by police.

Cannabis in Paris: What Tourists Should Know

As a visitor, it's important to know:

• Cannabis is illegal, and being caught with it can lead to fines, arrest, or deportation

• Police are particularly active around tourist hotspots, train stations, and nightlife areas

• Don’t attempt to buy weed from street dealers—this is risky, illegal, and often linked to scams

• Smoking cannabis in hotels, Airbnbs, or public parks puts you at risk of complaints and police action

Future Outlook

Public opinion in France is softening. Polls show growing support for legalising or decriminalising cannabis—particularly for personal use. Some political parties have pushed for reform, and a 2021 parliamentary report recommended regulating cannabis rather than criminalising it.

However, as of 2025:

• Recreational cannabis remains illegal

• Medical cannabis is limited to a state-controlled trial

• Full legalisation is not yet on the political agenda

In Summary:

• Weed is illegal in Paris, and possession, use, or sale can result in fines or criminal charges

• A €200 fine may apply for small amounts, but harsher penalties exist for larger quantities or repeat offences

• Medical cannabis is available only in a limited trial

• CBD is legal, but flowers may cause legal confusion

• Tourists are not exempt from the law and should avoid buying or using cannabis in France

While attitudes are changing, the law hasn’t caught up. If you're visiting Paris, don’t risk using cannabis—it’s not worth the fine, hassle, or criminal record.