The cannabis clubs (Association of cannabis consumers) are non-governmental, non-profit organizations.
They are associations of the elderly and marijuana consumers, who supply and distribute marijuana among their own members in a private environment, closed circles in which third parties are not reached, reducing the risks associated with buying marijuana in marginal environments.
By belonging to a cannabis club, the member avoids approaching high-risk drugs, achieving safety in their consumption.
In this way, they actively participate in the improvement of society.
The members of a cannabis club enter into a collective agreement for shared consumption, so that the amounts correspond to a forecast of consumption by the group, considering the amount of cannabis consumed by each user.
In no case do cannabis associations disseminate cannabis to people who do not belong to the association.
In the video above, the operation of a cannabis club is explained in a simple way.
Legality of cannabis use in Spain
Cannabis use is not penalized in Spain, so buying marijuana is not illegal.
Nor is it punishable by criminal proceedings, but it is punishable by an administrative penalty of between €300 and €3,000 for consumption and/or possession of cannabis on public roads. In general, the authorities keep the penalties at the lowest level and it is rare that a fine for possession or consumption of cannabis in public exceeds €450.
At the end of 2013, the draft Law for the Protection of Citizen Security was presented, in which the penalties for possessing or consuming cannabis on public roads were increased to €1,000, eliminating the possibility of substituting fines for detoxification treatment.
Differences between a Cannabis club or buying Marijuana
- In a weed cafe in Barcelona, the members enter into a collective shared consumption agreement, so that the quantities correspond to a forecast of collective consumption, considering the amount of cannabis consumed by each user. You can check here for more information about how to get an invite from such clubs.
- In a cannabis club, members know the quality of what they consume, since all varieties are previously analyzed.
- In a cannabis club, members have legal protection, since they have legal advice.
- In a cannabis club, members have a private space in which to consume.
- In a cannabis club, members are not exposed to the risks associated with buying on the black market, actively participating in the improvement of society.
- Cannabis clubs located in closed places, you can’t just find them, there are also no advertising signs.
- To get into the club, you must receive an invitation from its members or from the club itself.
The market just grows
There are around 200 clubs currently operating, most spread across the central part of the city.
They operate on the tightrope of the law. However, they are open for business in agreement with the public authorities. In other words, stay under the radar and follow the rules as best you can.
Risks and rules
There are so many of them – that, similar to the start of the legalization process in the US states of California, Colorado and Washington, you have to be part of the scene to know where they are.
However, establishments are still subject to invasion or even having their customers fined up to $550 if they are caught by the police with marijuana on the street.
The rules are basic. Clubs may not advertise, market or promote their own club or the products that are marketed within the premises.
Technically, they don’t “sell” anything either. Members must “contribute” to “club expenses”. Besides, you need to be referred by another “member” of the club to be able to consume.
But calm down…Don’t let this put you off if you’re in Barcelona and need to “replenish your stock”.
Just take your passport, some cash and you’re done. It is very easy to find the clubs in the “mazes” of the city center. The establishments are concentrated in the Gothic Quarter.
Keep the map app turned on on your phone, as the small cobbled streets, often too narrow for anything but foot traffic, can get you lost.
The beauty of the city
The best place to be if you want to experience more than one club is the old town – or Ciutat Vella , a part of Barcelona that hails from Spain’s maritime and imperial past.
Lush tropical foliage adorns balconies overlooking narrow, almost medieval streets.
Street in gothic quarter in Barcelona.
The lyrical tones of the Spanish language, along with the sea breeze and the inviting aromas of sidewalk cafes, float around you as you walk around looking for clubs.
And to find the clubs?
Once nearby, simply type the words “cannabis barcelona” into your browser. Convenient “weed maps” with directions will pop up at the top of the list without much effort.
Search a little and you will even find WhatsApp groups that will be happy to inform you about the “best and closest”. Then it’s just a matter of being able to follow the instructions.
Restriction laws
Unwritten laws, including those recently ruled by court precedents, also require clubs not to solicit new members.
This means that even if you try to join the club online, chances are the club’s homepage will say that they are not accepting new members. Don’t believe it, they have to do this.
All clubs advise that you will have to identify yourself as of legal age at reception before asking any questions.
Found it, now what?
Upon arrival, you’ll be greeted by an opaque glass door that opens to reveal a doorman behind a desk.
This is where you pay your membership fee (around $25) or show your “badge” if you are a recurring member. Memberships are valid for one year.
Once approved, you’ll enter another door that will take you inside the club.
Decoration
The place is organized as follows: a single room with vending machines, sofas, low and comfortable tables, and large televisions.
You’ll also find discreet staff who won’t answer questions except what’s on display.
The biggest difference between the clubs is their location, decor and, of course, the barely visible staff and managers behind them.