South African Cannabis Laws

Emergency: If You Are Arrested

4 Tips to assist your arrest

1.Comply don’t resist.
2.Give them info about yourself, address, no obligation to provide extra info about what you do. NEVER SIGN ADMISSION OF GUILT OR PAY A FINE, only sign for BAIL.
3.Remain silent. Sometimes the police are not very considerate when searching your premises. They may be intimidating, but just know that with the knowledge gained from our Know Your Rights booklet, you can stand your ground!
4.If you can, at the arrest, show the cops the following articles.

Legal Resources

Click to view official documents:

Important Notice

This guide is intended to help minimize traumatic interactions with the South African Police Services and associated law enforcement. It is based on over a decade of experience and focuses on your Human and Constitutional Rights.

Current Legal Status

The Cannabis for Private Purposes Act (CfPPA) was signed into law on 28 May 2024.
Regulations for private use and cultivation are pending.
Cannabis is no longer part of the Drugs & Drug Trafficking Act of 1992.
Trade ("dealing") remains completely illegal.
SAHPRA licenses for medical cannabis production are legitimate.
No local cannabis medicines are currently registered with SAHPRA in South Africa.

Private Use and Possession

There are no maximum quantities for private possession, growth, or consumption.
Keep cultivation reasonable and private to avoid unwanted attention.
No specific quantity of cannabis can legally indicate dealing.
Your car, bag, pockets, and shoes are considered private spaces.
You can fly domestically with a personal stash (be reasonable with the amount).

Avoiding Arrest

Be alert when buying cannabis.
Always be discreet.
Hide it carefully.
Do not smoke in public.
Obey traffic laws.
Be polite to the police.
Trading is very dangerous and illegal.

If You're Arrested

Remain calm and polite.
You have the right to remain silent except for providing your name and address.
Do not pay admission of guilt fines, as this will result in a criminal record.
Request to see the "ANNEXURE TO WRITTEN NOTICE TO APPEAR IN COURT IN TERMS OF SECTION 56 OF ACT 51 OF 1977".
You have the right to contact an attorney.

Additional Resources

For more detailed information and up-to-date resources, visit the Fields of Green for ALL website

Disclaimer

This information is provided for educational purposes only and should not be considered legal advice. Always consult with a qualified legal professional for specific legal matters.