Deutsche Bahn bans cannabis consumption at train stations in Germany

Starting June 1, Deutsche Bahn (DB), Germany's state railway company, will implement new rules at its stations and platforms, prohibiting cannabis consumption. This measure comes in response to recent legislation that partially legalized the use of the substance in the country, but restricted its consumption in certain public places, such as schools, daycare centers, and sports areas.

According to a DB spokesperson, the change aims to protect passengers, especially children and young people, from the potential negative effects of cannabis consumption. Until now, the company had allowed friendly consumption, but starting in June, offenders will be punished.

The new regulation will initially follow a "friendly" enforcement model, with DB staff asking users to stop consuming cannabis at the stations. However, starting in June, punitive measures will be applied. An exception is made for medicinal cannabis use, which was already permitted before the changes in legislation.

While cannabis will be subject to prohibition at the stations, tobacco will continue to be allowed in designated areas within some of them. Since 2007, German legislation has restricted cigarette consumption at the stations, allowing it only in specific areas. However, disregard for this rule is common, as is cannabis consumption outside the designated areas.

Additionally, Bavarian authorities announced a ban on cannabis consumption at the 2024 Oktoberfest in Munich. Since early April, individuals over 18 can carry up to 25 grams of the substance and grow up to three plants for personal use, according to the new guidelines.

Cannabis can be purchased at "cannabis social clubs," non-profit associations with a limit of 500 members, where members can buy up to 50 grams per month.

Deutsche Bahn expects to complete the implementation of the new rules in four weeks, before applying penalties to offenders starting June 1.