Can You Get Arrested for Smoking Weed in Thailand? | Haze Buds CNX
July 18, 2025
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The question “Can you get arrested for smoking weed in Thailand?” is one of the most common inquiries from tourists and locals alike, especially since cannabis laws have evolved rapidly in recent years. At Haze Buds CNX, we believe in cannabis education that’s clear, professional, and easy to understand.
Let’s walk through what the law actually says, what it means for you, and how to enjoy cannabis responsibly in Thailand without getting into legal trouble.
Until 2018, cannabis in Thailand was strictly illegal under the Narcotic Act B.E. 2522. In 2019, the government allowed medical cannabis use under strict regulation. Then in June 2022, Thailand became the first country in Asia to decriminalize cannabis.
But “decriminalize” doesn’t mean “fully legal.” It means certain actions are no longer criminal offenses — but that doesn’t give you a free pass to smoke weed anywhere and anytime.
No. Smoking cannabis in public is illegal and can result in arrest. You are allowed to possess, grow, and consume cannabis — but smoking it recreationally in public is considered a public nuisance, which is a punishable offense.
Let’s break this down more clearly.
✅ Cannabis plant possession – legal for personal use.
✅ Growing cannabis – allowed, but must register via the Plook Ganja app.
✅ Cannabis extracts (under 0.2% THC) – legal for medical use only.
✅ Cannabis flower – legal to buy and possess, but not for public use.
✅ Medical cannabis – legal with a prescription.
✅ Edibles and oils – legal if they contain less than 0.2% THC.
✅ Personal, private use – legal if done in your own home.
❌ Smoking cannabis in public places – considered a public nuisance.
❌ Driving while high – illegal and dangerous.
❌ Selling products with THC > 0.2% without a license.
❌ Cannabis use by minors (under 20), pregnant women, and breastfeeding mothers.
❌ Importing or exporting cannabis – strictly illegal.
Yes — but under specific circumstances.
If you smoke in public (parks, sidewalks, hotels, bars), police may charge you with causing a public nuisance under the Public Health Act.
The penalty is up to 25,000 THB fine and/or 3 months in jail.
If you drive under the influence, you can be fined or arrested under traffic laws.
But if you’re smoking at home, with adults, and not disturbing others — that’s generally safe and legal.
It means disturbing others by smell, behavior, or noise. Even if cannabis is legal, the act of smoking in a way that affects others can still be illegal.
For example:
A hotel guest complaining about cannabis smell.
A neighbor reporting you for smoking too loudly or frequently.
A passerby smelling strong weed on a public street.
If you’re visiting Chiang Mai or other tourist hotspots:
Don’t smoke in public. That includes cafes, hostels, beaches, and streets.
Don’t bring cannabis on a plane — even domestically.
Buy only from licensed dispensaries (like Haze Buds CNX).
Always carry an ID — some areas require age verification.
Avoid mixing cannabis with alcohol in public places.
Police may:
Ask you to stop and give a warning.
Issue a fine (up to 25,000 THB).
Arrest you for disturbing public peace.
Test your THC level if driving.
Confiscate your weed or products.
Tourists may also face visa complications if charges are serious.
Yes — there is no law against tourists buying cannabis flower or products. But:
You must be over 20 years old.
Only buy from licensed dispensaries.
Do not carry weed into airports or out of the country.
Do not smoke in your hotel unless you have clear permission.
Cannabis Dispensary do exist in Thailand, especially in Chiang Mai and Bangkok. These venues often:
Allow on-site smoking in designated private areas.
Provide ventilation and enclosed spaces to avoid public disturbance.
Are legally registered and follow public health laws.
Always check if the place is properly licensed and follows Thai health codes.
You can obtain medical cannabis in Thailand legally if:
You visit a licensed clinic or hospital.
A doctor prescribes cannabis for your condition.
You carry documentation if using high-THC extracts.
Medical cannabis is reserved for Thai citizens and long-term residents.
Yes — but you must:
Be over 20 years old.
Register your grow via the Plook Ganja app.
Use it only for personal or medical purposes.
Not sell it without proper licensing.
Growing for profit without permits is illegal.
As of 2025, the Thai government is working on:
New Cannabis Act legislation.
Reclassifying cannabis under public health regulations.
Possibly banning recreational use again.
But as of now, cannabis remains legal with restrictions.
| Action | Is It Legal? | Possible Penalty |
|---|---|---|
| Smoking weed in public | ❌ No | Fine up to 25,000 THB / Jail |
| Smoking at home | ✅ Yes | None if done privately |
| Driving under influence | ❌ No | DUI penalties, possible arrest |
| Possessing flower (over 20) | ✅ Yes | Legal if bought from licensed shop |
| Selling cannabis without license | ❌ No | Heavy fines, jail, license revocation |
| Under 20 using cannabis | ❌ No | Warning, fines, parental notification |
Smoke only in private, enclosed areas.
Don’t bring cannabis to airports or planes.
Don’t assume your Airbnb allows smoking — always ask.
Keep your products labeled and in original packaging.
Use cannabis respectfully and discreetly.
At Haze Buds, we prioritize safety and education. We:
Sell only lab-tested, licensed cannabis.
Educate customers on safe and legal use.
Advocate for a respectful cannabis culture in Thailand.
When you shop with us, you’re not just getting flower — you’re getting peace of mind.
So, can you get arrested for smoking weed in Thailand?
Yes, if you’re doing it in public, driving high, or causing a disturbance.
No, if you’re enjoying cannabis responsibly in your private space, over 20 years old, and buying from licensed shops.
Thailand is leading Asia in cannabis reform — but users must still act with caution, respect, and responsibility.
Q: Can I smoke weed in a park in Chiang Mai?
A: No. Public parks are considered public spaces and smoking weed there is illegal.
Q: Can I carry cannabis on a domestic flight?
A: It’s not recommended. Airports are government-controlled areas and cannabis is not allowed, even on domestic flights.
Q: What happens if someone complains about my weed smell?
A: Police may fine or arrest you for public nuisance if they feel the complaint is valid.
Q: Can I get weed delivered to my hotel?
A: Yes — but you must check if the hotel allows cannabis on the premises.
Q: Is vaping cannabis in public legal?
A: No. Whether it’s flower or vape, the same rules apply — no public use.
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