Amsterdam Coffeeshop Rules: The Basics

Welcome to Amsterdam! If it's your first time visiting a local coffeeshop like Carmona, you might have a few questions about how things work. Dutch cannabis policy is world-famous, but it operates under a strict set of rules known as the gedoogbeleid (tolerance policy). To make sure you have a safe, relaxed, and legal experience, here are the core rules every visitor must follow.

1. You Must Be 18+ and Have Physical ID

This is the most strictly enforced rule across the entire country. You must be at least 18 years old to enter any coffeeshop. Establishments face severe penalties (including forced closure) if they allow underage guests inside.

• What to bring: A valid, physical Passport, European ID Card, or Dutch Driving License.
• What is NOT accepted: Photos of your ID on your phone, student cards, or non-European driving licenses without a passport.

2. The 5 Gram Limit

Under Dutch law, coffeeshops are only allowed to sell a maximum of 5 grams of cannabis per person, per day. You also are legally allowed to carry a maximum of 5 grams on your person.

At Coffeeshop Carmona, our top-quality menu items make it easy to reach this limit affordably, but please do not ask us to sell you more. We legally cannot and will not make exceptions.

3. No Alcohol or Hard Drugs

Coffeeshops are for cannabis, coffee, and tea only. The sale and consumption of alcohol is strictly forbidden inside licensed coffeeshops. Additionally, possessing or attempting to consume hard drugs on the premises will lead to immediate removal and a permanent ban. It puts our license at extreme risk.

4. Pure Tobacco Smoking Is Not Allowed Indoors

While you might be in a smoking lounge, European indoor smoking bans apply to tobacco. You cannot smoke a pure tobacco cigarette inside our lounge. If you prefer to mix your cannabis with tobacco in a joint, you should be discreet, but we highly recommend using the free herbal mix we provide on every table instead.

5. Sit Back, Relax, and Buy a Drink

To use the seating area or our gaming tables, standard etiquette (expected in almost every coffeeshop in Amsterdam) is that you make a purchase. Buy your smoke, grab a fresh Moroccan mint tea, and make yourself at home. Outside food and drinks are not allowed.

Ready to experience a true Amsterdam hidden gem? Come visit us at Coffeeshop Carmona in De Pijp!