According to the Private Cannabis Bill, smoking cannabis in public is still considered illegal.
A public place is one that is open and accessible, Simplicable said. Clubs, bars, and street corners are all public places. A private place is anything that does not fit this definition, such as a home or apartment.
President Ramaphosa signed the bill into force. However, many South Africans do not know what the bill allows and what does not.
Here's a closer look at the Cannabis Bill and how what's legal will affect SA.
Smoking cannabis in public places remains illegal
According to the Private Cannabis Bill, private use of cannabis is permitted. Private use means smoking cannabis (or using the product) within your home or private space.
What does this bill not cover?
By law, consumption in public places or public spaces is not permitted.
According to the law, you can only carry a limited amount.
By law, it cannot be sold. This is still debatable.
Smoking cannabis: what is allowed?
The law allows individuals and households to bring in “up to 600g of dried cannabis.”
Citizens can smoke in their private spaces. Public places have different rules. You can also be arrested if you smoke (or ingest) cannabis in public.
Cannabis for private purposes bill
Private cannabis legislation has been debated for years.
President Cyril Ramaphosa formally enacted the bill in 2024.
Many studies state that cannabis has benefits. There are also popular recreational uses.
This bill gives more people the right to choose. It also takes pressure off the legal and court systems and reduces the burden of instant cannabis arrests.
It's important to know if you care about smoking.
Smoking Weed: Blaze420 Music Festival “Postponed”
Although personal consumption of cannabis is legal, public use remains controversial. Popular music festival Blaze 420 is feeling the effects.
Blaze420 attracts hundreds of music and cannabis enthusiasts.
Unfortunately, public consumption is still illegal.
The move means the festival will be postponed “until further notice or agreement.”
Please give us your feedback
We'd love to hear your thoughts on this story! Let us know what you think by emailing info@thesouthafrican.com. We welcome feedback from our readers.
Read more articles by François Jansen (Alex J. Coyne)
