How the Züri Can Cannabis Pilot Study Works
An in-depth look at Zurich's official scientific project evaluating the regulated sale of cannabis for local residents.
Critical Warning
Tourists and non-residents cannot use this directory as a walk-in cannabis shopping guide.
Zurich Cannabis Social Clubs and participating pharmacies are strictly regulated distribution points for pre-approved study participants only. You cannot enter these locations and purchase cannabis without an official study ID card.
What is "Züri Can - Cannabis with Responsibility"?
Züri Can is a joint scientific study conducted by the City of Zurich (Department of Health and Environment) and the Psychiatric University Hospital Zurich. Authorized by the Swiss Federal Office of Public Health (FOPH), it aims to study the impact of regulated cannabis access on consumption behavior and public health.
It is not a full legalization model, but a 3.5-year clinical and sociological trial. All participants provide health data periodically to help shape future national drug policy.
Strict Participation Requirements
To be considered for the study, applicants must meet all of the following non-negotiable criteria:
The Registration Procedure
- Online Registration: Interested residents apply via the official city portal. Due to high demand, there is often a waiting list.
- Document Verification: A strict contrôle du domicile (residence check) is performed. Applicants must provide a valid ID and a "Wohnsitzbestätigung" (certificate of residence).
- Medical Baseline Appointment: Candidates visit a designated health center for a medical evaluation to ensure participation will not pose acute health risks.
- Scientific Questionnaire: Before receiving their study ID, participants must fill out an extensive baseline questionnaire about their consumption habits, mental health, and demographics. This must be repeated every six months.
Authorized Distribution Points
Participants are assigned to a specific distribution point upon enrollment. Products cannot be purchased outside this assigned location. Note: Locations and availability are subject to change by the City of Zurich.
Participating Pharmacies
Offer a clinical, purely transactional setting. Pharmacists provide medical advice, harm-reduction literature, and sell the tightly regulated, organically grown study products in sealed containers.
Cannabis Social Clubs
These are private, non-profit associations specifically approved for the study. They offer a community setting where participants can socialize. Some clubs allow on-site consumption in heavily ventilated, restricted areas. They are completely closed to the general public.
DIZ (Drogeninformationszentrum)
The DIZ primarily operates as a harm-reduction and drug-checking facility. While integrated into the study's health monitoring network, it is largely focused on testing and counseling rather than direct recreational retail.
Study Rules and Strict Restrictions
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No Resale or Sharing Transmitting study cannabis to any other person—even for free, and even to other adults—is strictly prohibited and results in immediate expulsion from the study and potential criminal charges.
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Maximum Quantities Participants are limited to purchasing a maximum of 10 grams per transaction, with a strictly regulated monthly limit capped by total THC content (max 10 grams of pure THC per month).
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Consumption Zones Study products cannot be smoked in public spaces accessible to the general public. Consumption is limited to private property or specific, authorized social club premises.
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Product Quality and Potency All products (flowers and hashish) are cultivated in Switzerland under Bio-Suisse (organic) guidelines. They undergo rigorous laboratory testing for pesticides, molds, and precise THC/CBD ratios, ensuring consumer safety.
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