Contrary to popular belief, cannabis is still illegal in the Netherlands. Here’s the current situation broken down for you into the key facts, which are especially important for tourists to know.
Legalizing Cannabis in The Netherlands
By The Stoner's Cookbook
Once one of the front-runners for cannabis legalization, Holland's fight has definitely regressed. However, new positives have come to light and legalization is close once again.
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Holland's Outlook on Hard and Soft Drugs
By The Stoner's Cookbook
Holland views illegal drugs in two groups: hard drugs and soft drugs. Cannabis is deemed as a soft drug. There is no current prosecution against soft drugs users, but the substances are still illegal.
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Cracking Down on Illegal Growers
By The Stoner's Cookbook
The focus of law enforcement is currently on stopping commercial growers and criminal gangs. There have even been "scratch-and-sniff" cards given out to identify the smell and report growers.
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It Has Been Decriminalized for Personal Use
By The Stoner's Cookbook
Usage has been made legal in designated smoking areas, while new policies allow individuals to own and cultivate small amounts. The maximum amount of bud you can have on you is 0.2 ounces.
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Coffee Shops May Sell Weed
By The Stoner's Cookbook
Although it is indeed still illegal, police tolerate the sale of weed as long as owners don't break the rules by selling harder drugs, selling to minors, selling more than 5 grams or advertising it.
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Foreigners Can't Partake
By The Stoner's Cookbook
The government has stated that only residents of the country may purchase bud in coffee shops. This is then enforced by local municipalities, yet most do not perform there due diligence.
