Smoking Cannabis in Public in Amsterdam: Rules and Fines

The basic picture

Amsterdam is tolerant of cannabis in coffeeshops, but that tolerance does not cover the street. The city regulates where people may smoke outdoors, and some areas in the centre are off limits.

Where it is usually fine

• Inside a coffeeshop, using cannabis without tobacco or a vaporizer.
• On a coffeeshop's own terrace, if the shop allows it.
• Some private spaces, such as your own accommodation, if the owner permits smoking.

Where you can be fined

• Streets and squares in the parts of the city centre where a smoking ban applies, including areas around the Red Light District.
• Near schools and other places where children gather.
• Public transport, museums, restaurants and shops.
• Anywhere a sign or the local rules say smoking is not allowed.

Why the rules exist

The city centre gets very crowded, and residents have complained about smoke, litter and noise. Restrictions on public smoking are one of the tools the city uses to reduce nuisance without closing coffeeshops.

How to avoid a problem

• Use your cannabis in the coffeeshop or on its terrace.
• Check the street for signs showing where smoking is banned.
• Do not smoke while walking, cycling or in a queue.
• Do not smoke near children or in a crowded queue, and keep clear of the shop entrance if staff ask you to.
• Ask staff if you are unsure. They know the local rules.

Smoke-friendly places to stay and relax

Terraces and smoke-friendly cafés give you somewhere to relax. See our lists of coffeeshops with terraces and smoke-friendly bars and clubs.

Local rules and fines change. Follow signs and the instructions of officers, and check the city website for the latest information.