Paris enforces a strict approach to cannabis law, with recreational weed remaining illegal and possession subject to fines or criminal penalties under French law. While small amounts of marijuana may result in on-the-spot fines rather than arrest, public use, cultivation, and distribution are prohibited, and medical cannabis access is limited to a tightly controlled national pilot program. This page explains Paris’s current marijuana legality, including recreational restrictions, medical cannabis rules, CBD regulations, possession penalties, and how French law is applied in practice within the city. For readers who want to compare how Paris fits into the broader global landscape, see our comprehensive breakdown of cannabis regulations by location across U.S. states, major cities, and countries worldwide in the Cannabis Laws by Location guide.
Table of Contents
Is marijuana legal in Paris
1. Recreational Cannabis
- Status: Illegal
- Possession: Punishable by a €200 fine (for small amounts); repeat offenses or intent to distribute can lead to criminal charges and imprisonment.
- Use in Public: Strictly prohibited.
- Driving Under Influence: Zero tolerance — subject to legal penalties.
2. Medical Cannabis
- Status: Restricted and regulated
- Access: Only available through a limited national pilot program (launched in 2021).
- Eligibility: Prescribed by certified physicians for conditions like:
- Chronic pain
- Epilepsy
- Multiple sclerosis
- Side effects from chemotherapy
- Availability: Only pharmaceutical-grade cannabis from authorized sources is permitted.
3. CBD (Cannabidiol)
- Status: Legal, with restrictions.
- THC Limit: Products must contain less than 0.3% THC.
- Sales: Widely available in shops and online across Paris.
- Marketing Restrictions: Cannot be promoted for therapeutic use unless approved by health authorities.
4. Legal Outlook
- France has one of the strictest cannabis laws in Western Europe.
- Ongoing debate continues around broader medical legalization.
- No signs of imminent recreational legalization.
Conclusion: Marijuana remains illegal in Paris for recreational use, and medical access is tightly controlled. CBD is legal within specific THC limits. Visitors and residents should remain cautious and follow current regulations.
