This is part of a special Ohai Chronicles series leading up to Spannabis week in Barcelona, taking place March 14–16, 2025. Whether you’re attending this year or planning a future trip, this guide will help you navigate Spain’s cannabis laws so you can make informed choices. Stay tuned for upcoming articles covering the cannabis social club scene and how to network at Spannabis.

My Experience with the Policía in Barcelona

On the second day of my trip last year, I walked up to my favorite social club in Barcelona, expecting a familiar and laid-back experience. But as I stepped toward the entrance, I spotted uniformed officers inside. We immediately turned to leave, but before I could take another step, a plainclothes officer placed a firm hand on my shoulder and fired off questions in Spanish.

• What am I doing here?
• Who am I with?
• Why am I in Barcelona?

This was during one of the largest social club raids in Barcelona’s history, and I happened to walk in at exactly the wrong moment.

After several minutes of questioning, they took my passport and disappeared inside the club. My nerves started to kick in as I stood there, wondering if I had unknowingly broken a law or if I was about to deal with unexpected legal trouble. When they returned, they told me there was no problem for me—but for the club owners, who could face fines if foreigners were found purchasing cannabis inside. That moment made one thing clear: while Spain’s cannabis culture is thriving, the legal landscape is anything but straightforward. And if you're planning to visit, understanding these nuances will help you avoid unnecessary stress.

The Cannabis Laws in Spain: The Basics

Spain operates in a legal gray area when it comes to cannabis. Unlike Amsterdam, where cannabis is sold openly in coffee shops, Spain’s system revolves around private, member-based social clubs.

• Cannabis is decriminalized for personal use – You can legally consume in private spaces, including social clubs, but public consumption is illegal and can result in fines.
  
  
• Social clubs require a membership – Clubs operate as nonprofit organizations, meaning you must be a member to enter and consume.
  
  
• No purchasing, only “sharing” – Your membership fee contributes to the club’s overall cannabis supply, and in return, you can access a share of what’s grown. This keeps it legally framed as a ‘collective’ rather than a commercial sale.
  
  
• Bringing cannabis outside a club is illegal – You cannot legally carry cannabis in public, even if you received it from a club.
  
  
• Tourists face restrictions – While some clubs require Spanish residency, others allow memberships with a local referral or pre-registration. It’s always best to check club policies in advance.

What’s Changing? The Future of Cannabis in Spain

While the Cannabis Social Club model has been in place for years, recent legal scrutiny has created uncertainty—particularly regarding how clubs operate and who they can legally serve. Spannabis 2025 will likely see more discussions about the future of cannabis regulation in Spain, but for now, the laws remain ambiguous.

Ongoing conversations about medical cannabis regulation suggest Spain may move toward a clearer framework, but until then, clubs continue to operate within this legal gray area. If you’re attending Spannabis, keep an eye on industry panels and discussions, as regulatory updates or shifts in enforcement could directly impact the future of social clubs and cannabis access in Spain. The panels and discussions at the expo often provide insight into potential regulation shifts, so it’s worth keeping an ear out for any major updates.

Tips for Navigating Cannabis in Spain

• Only consume in private spaces – Social clubs or private residences are safe zones. Avoid public smoking.
  
  
• Carry small amounts (if any) in public – While personal use isn’t criminalized, carrying cannabis outside a club can still result in a fine.
  
  
• Be aware of club policies – Some clubs enforce stricter membership rules due to legal concerns. Always check ahead.
  
  
• Don’t assume all clubs allow tourists – Some clubs require a Spanish residency, while others operate more discreetly.
  
  
• Stay informed – Laws can shift, and enforcement varies by region. If you’re unsure, ask locals or fellow Spannabis attendees for the latest insights.

Parting Thoughts

Barcelona’s cannabis scene is one of the most unique in the world, but it’s important to stay mindful of the laws and respect the spaces you’re in. The social club model is built on a delicate balance, and understanding the rules helps ensure these spaces continue to thrive.

If you’re heading to Spannabis and want to avoid any legal surprises, start with Ohai’s Guide to Your First Spannabis. It’ll help you navigate the event seamlessly and make the most of your time in Barcelona.

Barcelona’s cannabis culture is unlike anywhere else—just remember to enjoy it on its own terms. Stay smart, stay informed, and most importantly, stay present in the experience.