Understanding South Africa’s Cannabis Laws: What Adults Need to Know About Private Use

Cannabis laws in South Africa have seen significant changes over the past few years. With the passing of the Cannabis for Private Purposes Act in May 2024, South Africans now have clearer guidelines on what is legal and what isn’t when it comes to adult cannabis use. Here’s what you need to know:

1. Private Use is Legal

Since the Constitutional Court rulings of 2017 and 2018, adults are legally allowed to use, possess, and cultivate cannabis in private for personal consumption.

"Private" includes any non-public space—not limited to your home.

However, public use, selling cannabis, or using it around children or non-consenting adults remains illegal.

At Aries & Amber, we embrace these boundaries by offering a safe, respectful, and fully private space where members can explore cannabis culture responsibly. We do not sell cannabis, but we support legal education, curated experiences, and meaningful dialogue around mindful consumption.

2. Legal Limits for Adults

The Cannabis for Private Purposes Act, which came into effect in May 2024, lays out specific limitations:

You may grow up to 4 plants per adult, or 8 plants per household (indoors or outdoors, on private property).

You can possess up to 600g of dried cannabis per adult, or 1.2kg per household.

You may share cannabis as a gift — up to 30 seeds or seedlings, and up to 100g of dried flower per person.

Buying or selling cannabis remains illegal.

We respect these limits and encourage our members to do the same. Our goal is to support a community that thrives on knowledge, compliance, and the freedom to consume privately within the law.

3. Expungement of Criminal Records

One of the important features of the Act is the opportunity to expunge past criminal records related to simple possession or personal use of cannabis. This aligns with the new legal status of the plant and provides relief to thousands previously criminalised.

4. What Remains Illegal

Despite progress, certain aspects of cannabis use are still unlawful:

Commercial activity (selling, trading, or dealing in cannabis or seeds) is prohibited.

Public consumption is illegal.

Use near children, in schools, or at workplaces is considered a criminal offence.

This legal distinction is central to our approach. Aries & Amber does not engage in cannabis trade or public events involving consumption. We exist within the private-use framework, creating intentional and educational spaces for adults.

5. Regulation Rollout & Ongoing Clarifications

While the Act has been signed into law, some of the finer regulations—such as specific enforcement guidelines and what exactly constitutes "private space"—are still being developed. Full implementation and regulatory clarity are expected by 2026.

Final Thoughts

Cannabis use for adults in South Africa is now legally protected in private settings, as long as you stay within the set limits. This is a major step forward for cannabis culture and personal rights in the country. However, it’s still essential to stay informed as regulations continue to evolve.

At Aries & Amber, we stand by this evolution. As a private members' collective, we support legal and responsible cannabis exploration. We do not promote illegal use or sale, but instead provide a curated, respectful, and compliant environment for education, appreciation, and personal freedom.

Always consume responsibly, stay within the legal guidelines, and respect the boundaries of others.