- No approved cannabis cultivation group exists in North Rhine-Westphalia yet.
In North Rhine-Westphalia, around 69 petitions for collective cannabis cultivation have been sent, but no group has been given a green light yet. According to a dpa survey of the regional administrations in charge, this has been the situation since July 1, when it became legal to apply for a permit to grow cannabis collectively and distribute it among association members. This change was brought about by the federal government's cannabis legalization law in the spring.
It's come to light that most applications submitted in North Rhine-Westphalia have been missing vital information since the application process began over two months ago. The review processes within the administrations have also proven to be time-consuming. The responsibility for handling these applications has been assigned to the regional governments, which have either hired extra personnel or are in the process of creating new roles.
Which regions in North Rhine-Westphalia have the most applications?
By August 28, the Regional Government in Düsseldorf had received 22 applications. So far, the Regional Government in Düsseldorf has yet to approve any applications. The main issue here is that most applicants still need to make improvements, as confirmed by a spokesperson. She emphasized how complex the review process is to ensure compliance with legal requirements. Without a permit, a group cannot begin cultivation.
Currently, the Regional Government in Cologne has 19 incomplete applications. A spokesperson from Cologne pointed out various requirements, such as a drug prevention course, as challenges for applicants and significant work for the administration. The Regional Government in Münster has eight applications to date, with no approvals or rejects yet, according to its spokesperson.
The Regional Government in Arnsberg has 13 applications which have yet to receive permission. The review process in this region is also highly complex. The authority in Detmold has received seven applications by August 28, all of which are still under review, as reported by a spokesperson. However, obtaining a permit is just the beginning. "The Cannabis Consumption Act provides for regular administrative monitoring of cultivation associations thereafter," as it states online.
Strict requirements for clubs
Cultivation clubs can have up to 500 adult members who have lived in Germany for at least six months. They can collectively grow and distribute cannabis to their members in limited quantities but cannot sell it. No consumption is allowed on the premises. Clubs must maintain a minimum distance of 200 meters from schools, children's and youth facilities, and playgrounds.
Fines primarily aim to protect minors
Since May, a Cannabis Ordinance and a fine catalog have been in effect in North Rhine-Westphalia. Municipalities are responsible for enforcing and prosecuting offenses related to possession limits, consumption bans, and advertising bans. The Ministry of Health stresses on its website that the focus of sanctions is on health protection for children and young people. Consuming cannabis in the presence of minors can result in a fine between 300 and 1,000 euros.
The partial legalization of collective cannabis cultivation in North Rhine-Westphalia has prompted a surge in application submissions, with several regions facing challenges in processing them due to complexity and missing information. Despite the delay, no approval for collective cannabis cultivation has been given in any region as of yet.
