Marijuana Laws
As recorded December 15, 2025 · not verified as current law. Brazil law
Cannabis laws in Recife follow Brazil’s national law. Local variations are uncommon—jurisdiction law sets the baseline for legality and penalties.
Recreational cannabis is illegal, though personal possession and home cultivation are decriminalized. Medical cannabis is available under regulation. Sale and distribution remain prohibited outside approved channels.
Quick facts
- Recreational: Illegal (personal use decriminalized)
- Medical: Available
- Possession: Personal amounts decriminalized
- Buying/Selling: Illegal except medical
- Tourists: Same laws apply as residents
Practical guidance
Avoid cross-border transport of cannabis products. Do not assume informal tolerance equals legality.
Legislative Background
Brazil's Supreme Court has decriminalized personal possession and private home cultivation, treating them as non-criminal acts distinct from trafficking. Medical cannabis products are regulated and available via prescription or authorized imports for patients with approved conditions, while commercial sales outside this framework remain prohibited.
Law Enforcement
Police in Recife had a reputation for being hard on smokers. People talked about demands for money and worried about fines, arrest or rough treatment. The bitter joke was asking where those same officers were when somebody’s child got shot. A quiet smoke felt wiser than drawing attention.
Where to Buy Marijuana
Recife Antigo, Olinda and the crowds outside shows were the places people talked about. There was plenty around if you happened to be walking in the right direction.
Marijuana Prices
- R$50 for about 50 g, roughly US$23 at the time.
- R$10 for four rolled joints on the street, roughly US$4 at the time.
Types of Marijuana
The words you’d hear were massa, bagulho, maconha and erva.