Plain-language summaries, not legal advice. Check the official source linked on each rule.
Possession
Private possession protected (limits pending)
Private adult possession is protected since the 2018 Constitutional Court Prince ruling and the Cannabis for Private Purposes Act 7 of 2024. The Act awaits final regulations; the February 2026 draft proposes up to 750 g per adult. Public use, and any sale or supply, remain criminal offences.
Retail Sale
Sale prohibited; hemp permits since Dec 2025
All commercial cannabis trade is prohibited outside the SAHPRA medicinal licence. Since 1 December 2025, hemp (Cannabis sativa L. with <=2% THC) can be grown, imported and exported commercially under permit following the Plant Improvement Act change. A broader commercial Cannabis Bill is only expected in Parliament around mid-2027.
Homegrow
Home cultivation protected (5 plants proposed)
Adults may cultivate cannabis in private. The draft regulations of February 2026 propose up to 5 plants per adult in a private place, with strict transport and concealment conditions. These figures remain proposals until the regulations are gazetted.
Medical
Medical via SAHPRA licence only
Medical cannabis is accessible only through SAHPRA-licensed channels: unregistered cannabis medicines may be authorised case-by-case under section 21, and licensed cultivation for export/research operates under strict SAHPRA permits. There is no over-the-counter medical market.
Social Clubs
Clubs: high-risk grey zone (Haze Club ruling)
Grow clubs and social clubs have no legal recognition. In The Haze Club v Minister of Police, the Western Cape High Court declined to declare club cultivation-for-members lawful, treating it as potential dealing; the appeal was withdrawn, leaving that position as leading authority. Police raids on clubs and dispensaries continue. Absolute discretion, confidential member records and zero public visibility are existential for operators.