Many countries are trying to impose strict laws to prevent drug abuse and stop recreational drugs. But looks like Netherland has no such plans. It owns the crown for the world’s most lenient drug policies. Don’t get too excited right away. Though the county is quite liberal with its policies, there are many rules and regulations that the weed-sellers and smokers must follow.

After reading this, most of you might have started packing your bags to shift to Netherlands. But wait, slow down your horses.

Check out the 5 drug laws you need to be aware of in Netherlands.

Policies for Personal Use

According to the Netherlands drug policy, you can possess small amount of weed. As far as cultivation is concerned, you can do the same but in limited amount. You can grow not more than 5 plants. A person is allowed to carry only 5 gm (0.2 ounces) of the plant.

The Coffee Shop Rules:

Here you don’t have to go around looking out for those sleazy guys selling the drugs. You can confidently walk into a coffee shop to buy it. It still is technically illegal, but the local cops and prosecutors tolerate it as long as the sellers stick to the regulations and rules.

• Selling of “hard drugs” like cocaine, heroin, amphetamines and ecstasy is strictly prohibited.

• It shouldn’t be a nuisance to the neighborhood.

• Selling weed to minors (under 18 years) is prohibited.

• It is not allowed to sell more than 0.2 ounce or 5 gm per person.

• Advertising your coffee shop through weed is not allowed.

It’s Not Allowed for Foreigners

Yes, you read it right! The officials have made it a mandatory rule that only the “residents of Netherlands” can shop for weed in those coffee shops. But there seems to be a loophole in this policy. A European who lives in the country is allowed to smoke pot and also buy it freely from coffee shop. On the other hand, a Dutchman who lives in Europe is not allowed to do so. It is up to the local municipalities to enforce this law.

Illegal Growing Risks:

While locals can grow up to 5 weed plants, law authorities are actively trying to keep the commercial growers in check. These commercial growers are usually gangs, who grow cannabis on large scale and use it for illegal purpose.

Paradox:

Here is another funny thing. It is illegal for coffee stores to purchase the amount of cannabis they need, but it’s Alright for them to sell it. Hmmm….Food for thought!