What to Do If Police Stop You with Cannabis in South Africa (Updated for 2025)Subtitle: Know Your Rights Under the New Cannabis for Private Purposes Act (Act 7 of 2024)



🌿 South Africa’s New Cannabis Law Explained

The Cannabis for Private Purposes Act (Act 7 of 2024), signed into law in May 2024, officially outlines what adults in South Africa are allowed to possess, carry, and grow for personal use. While recreational sales remain illegal, the law now protects private cannabis possession within specific limits.


✅ Legal Cannabis Limits for Adults (18+)

According to the Act:

  • At Home (Private Place):
    • Up to 600 grams of dried cannabis per person
    • Up to 1,200 grams per household
    • Up to 4 flowering plants per adult, or 8 per household
  • In Public:
    • You may carry up to 100 grams of dried cannabis, as long as it’s concealed
    • No public consumption is allowed
    • You cannot consume cannabis in a vehicle

🚨 What to Do If Police Stop You

If you’re carrying cannabis within legal limits and you are stopped by police, follow these steps:

1. Stay Calm and Respectful

Avoid escalating the situation. Be firm, but polite.

2. Clarify Your Status

Ask:

“Am I being arrested or detained, officer?”

3. State That the Cannabis Is for Personal Use

Make it clear:

“This is for personal use and I am within the legal limits as per the Cannabis for Private Purposes Act of 2024.”

4. Refuse Unlawful Searches

You have the right to say:

“I do not consent to a search without a warrant or reasonable grounds.”

5. Document the Encounter

Note the badge number, names, time, and location. If possible, record audio or video discreetly.

6. Do Not Admit to Public Use

Even if carrying legally, public consumption is still illegal. Clarify that you’re transporting cannabis to a private space.

7. Call a Lawyer If Arrested

Do not make any statements. Request legal representation immediately.
📞 Legal Aid South Africa: 0800 110 110


📋 Quick Cannabis Rights Checklist

SituationLegal LimitWhat To Say
Carrying cannabis in public≤ 100g (concealed)“This is within the legal limit for personal use.”
At home≤ 600g per adult, 1,200g per home“I am in possession for private use only.”
Growing cannabis≤ 4 flowering plants per person“These are cultivated for personal use, not sale.”

⚖️ Legal Reference

“An adult person may possess, cultivate, and carry cannabis for personal use in private within the limits specified by this Act. However, public consumption, sale, or distribution remains prohibited.”
Cannabis for Private Purposes Act (Act 7 of 2024)


👮 If You’re Harassed or Arrested Unlawfully

You can report misconduct to:

  • IPID (Independent Police Investigative Directorate)
    📞 012 399 0000
    🌐 ipid.gov.za

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