{"id":3886,"date":"2026-02-12T17:02:07","date_gmt":"2026-02-12T16:02:07","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/mpw-rechtsanwaelte.com\/narcotic-substances-act-austria\/"},"modified":"2026-03-14T15:38:49","modified_gmt":"2026-03-14T14:38:49","slug":"narcotic-substances-act-austria","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/mpw-rechtsanwaelte.com\/en\/narcotic-substances-act-austria\/","title":{"rendered":"Narcotic Substances Act (Suchtmittelgesetz &#8211; SMG) in Austria: Overview of Rules and Penalties"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<p>The <strong>Austrian Narcotic Substances Act<\/strong> (Suchtmittelgesetz \u2013 SMG) regulates the handling of substances that may cause addiction or endanger health. Many people automatically associate this law with severe penalties, crime and illegality. In reality, however, it adopts a comparatively differentiated approach. Its purpose is not only to combat illegal drug trafficking, but above all to protect public health and to support individuals suffering from addiction. For this reason, the Narcotic Substances Act affects far more people than is often assumed \u2013 from consumers and relatives to medical professionals.   <\/p>\n\n<h2 class=\"gb-headline gb-headline-6ddcc1c9 gb-headline-text\">What does the Narcotic Substances Act regulate?<\/h2>\n\n<p>Fundamentally, the Act determines which substances qualify as narcotic substances and how they must be handled. It distinguishes between <strong>narcotic drugs<\/strong>, <strong>psychotropic substances<\/strong> and <strong>precursor chemicals<\/strong> (<a href=\"https:\/\/www.jusline.at\/gesetz\/smg\/paragraf\/1\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">\u00a7 1 SMG<\/a>). In practice, cases most commonly concern narcotic drugs such as cannabis, cocaine, heroin, MDMA (ecstasy, molly), amphetamine (speed), methamphetamine (crystal meth), LSD (acid), and others.   <\/p>\n\n<h3 class=\"gb-headline gb-headline-4b9a903f gb-headline-text\">\u00a7 27 SMG \u2013 Unlawful Handling of Narcotic Drugs in Austria<\/h3>\n\n<p>Section 27 of the Austrian Narcotic Substances Act covers the <strong>unlawful handling of narcotic drugs<\/strong>, even where they are intended exclusively for personal use. In practice, this provision constitutes one of the most frequent starting points for criminal investigations in the field of drug law. <\/p>\n\n<h2 class=\"gb-headline gb-headline-7d5ffcde gb-headline-text\">Elements of the offence and penalties for personal use<\/h2>\n\n<p>Under <a href=\"https:\/\/www.jusline.at\/gesetz\/smg\/paragraf\/27\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">\u00a7 27 SMG<\/a>, the handling of narcotic drugs is generally punishable, irrespective of any intention to make a profit. Contrary to a widespread misconception, there is <strong>no exempt \u201cminimum quantity\u201d<\/strong>. Even small amounts of so-called \u201csoft\u201d drugs such as cannabis or ecstasy, or hallucinogens such as LSD, are illegal in Austria. Without official authorisation, any handling of narcotic drugs is unlawful. \u201cHandling\u201d within the meaning of the Act includes acquisition (whether by purchase or free transfer), possession, production, transport, import and export, as well as offering, supplying or procuring narcotic drugs.<\/p>\n\n<p>Although consumption itself is not explicitly criminalised, virtually any conceivable consumption involves (punishable) possession of the substance. The cultivation of opium poppy, coca plants or cannabis plants, as well as psilocin-, psilocin- or psilocybin-containing mushrooms for the purpose of producing narcotic drugs, is likewise punishable. The penalty under <g id=\"gid_0\">\u00a7 27 para. 1 SMG<\/g> is:  <\/p>\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>imprisonment of up to one year<\/strong>, or<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>a fine of up to 360 daily penalty units.<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n<p>However, if the offence under \u00a7 27 para. 1 SMG is committed exclusively for personal use, the penalty is:<\/p>\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>imprisonment of up to six months<\/strong>, or<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>a fine of up to 360 daily penalty units.<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n<p><strong>Personal use therefore does not render the conduct exempt from punishment<\/strong>, but it significantly influences the <strong>legal assessment and the manner in which proceedings are conducted or concluded<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n<h2 class=\"gb-headline gb-headline-5b11eefe gb-headline-text\">Significance of the \u201csmall quantity\u201d and threshold quantity<\/h2>\n\n<p>A key issue in applying \u00a7 27 SMG is whether a <strong>small quantity<\/strong> is involved and whether the so-called statutory threshold quantity has been exceeded. The decisive factor is not the total weight of the drugs, but the <strong>quantity of pure active substance<\/strong>. The threshold quantities for the respective active substances are laid down in statutory provisions and relevant regulations in a tabular format. The distinction between \u201csoft\u201d and \u201chard\u201d drugs is effectively based on the quantity of pure active substance. The more dangerous a substance is considered by the legislature, the lower the defined threshold quantity.<br\/>    <\/p>\n\n<p>Whether the threshold quantity is undercut or exceeded is particularly relevant because it determines whether \u00a7 27 SMG applies or whether a <strong>more serious drug offence<\/strong> under \u00a7<a href=\"https:\/\/www.jusline.at\/gesetz\/smg\/paragraf\/28\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">\u00a7 28<\/a> or <a href=\"https:\/\/www.jusline.at\/gesetz\/smg\/paragraf\/28a\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">28a SMG<\/a> must be considered.<\/p>\n\n<h3 class=\"gb-headline gb-headline-777d2281 gb-headline-text\">Provisions under \u00a7 27 paras. 2\u20134 SMG<\/h3>\n\n<p><strong>Paragraphs 2 to 4 of \u00a7 27 SMG<\/strong> contain <strong>provisions<\/strong> covering cases in which the threshold quantity is not exceeded, but certain conduct triggers stricter penalties, for example supplying or offering narcotic drugs in public places or to minors.<\/p>\n\n<h2 class=\"gb-headline gb-headline-f2d9f302 gb-headline-text\">Diversion as a statutory response<\/h2>\n\n<p>Section 27 SMG frequently allows \u2013 particularly in the case of first-time offenders \u2013 the <strong>possibility of diversion<\/strong>, i.e. a conditional or final discontinuation of prosecution. The focus lies not on punishment but on<strong> preventive and health-related measures<\/strong>. The public prosecutor\u2019s office or the court may, under certain conditions, refrain from prosecution, particularly where the offence is connected with personal drug use and no aggravating circumstances are present. In practice, measures may include:   <\/p>\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>medical examination,<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>counselling sessions,<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/mpw-rechtsanwaelte.com\/en\/treatment-instead-of-punishment\/\">therapeutic measures<\/a>.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n<p>If the imposed conditions are fulfilled, the <strong>criminal proceedings may be definitively discontinued<\/strong>. Whether and under which conditions this specific form of diversion under drug law is granted always depends on the circumstances of the individual case. <\/p>\n\n<h2 class=\"gb-headline gb-headline-e1b48349 gb-headline-text\">Narcotic Substances Act and distinction from more serious offences<\/h2>\n\n<p>Of considerable practical importance is the <strong>distinction from offences relating to (the preparation of) drug trafficking under \u00a7 28a SMG (\u00a7 28 SMG)<\/strong>. If there is suspicion that the threshold quantity has been exceeded \u2013 <strong>even without intent to profit<\/strong> \u2013 <strong>\u00a7\u00a7 28 or 28a SMG<\/strong> generally apply instead of \u00a7 27 SMG. These provisions carry significantly higher penalties, in some cases up to 15 years\u2019 imprisonment. Allegations under \u00a7\u00a7 28 and 28a SMG are also frequently accompanied by arrest and the imposition of pre-trial detention.  <\/p>\n\n<p>The Narcotic Substances Act is multifaceted and complex. Numerous particularities arise from established case law of the higher courts. A careful analysis of the allegations and the evidential situation is therefore essential. Under no circumstances should statements be made to the criminal investigation police without prior legal advice.   <\/p>\n\n<h2 class=\"gb-headline gb-headline-1fd90e77 gb-headline-text\">Practical defence considerations<\/h2>\n\n<p>Crucial decisions are often made at an early stage of the investigation. Statements to investigative authorities, the classification of the seized quantity, other evidential findings, the individual\u2019s drug history and the issue of personal use play a central role. <\/p>\n\n<p><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/mpw-rechtsanwaelte.com\/en\/expertises\/criminal-law\/\">Early criminal defence advice<\/a><\/strong> can be decisive in preserving the requirements for diversion and in avoiding unnecessary or severe criminal consequences.<\/p>\n\n<h2 class=\"gb-headline gb-headline-9edcbf80 gb-headline-text\"><strong>Contact us to secure your customized defense strategy<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n<p>If you or a person close to you is under investigation for an offence under the Narcotic Substances Act, obtaining early and qualified legal advice is of decisive importance. <a href=\"https:\/\/mpw-rechtsanwaelte.com\/en\/\">MPW Rechtsanw\u00e4lte<\/a> have extensive experience in defending drug-related criminal proceedings and support clients from the initial stage of investigation through to the conclusion of the case. <\/p>\n\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/mpw-rechtsanwaelte.com\/en\/contact\/\">Timely contact<\/a> makes it possible to safeguard your rights, avoid ill-considered statements and work strategically towards diversion or the most favourable possible resolution of the proceedings.<\/p>\n\n<h2 class=\"gb-headline gb-headline-569abefe gb-headline-text\">Summary<\/h2>\n\n<p><strong>Section 27 SMG<\/strong> criminalises the unlawful handling of narcotic drugs, while at the same time providing <strong>differentiated responses<\/strong> within Austrian drug criminal law. The specific applicability depends largely on the individual circumstances of the case, in particular the quantity involved, the intended purpose and the manner of commission. <\/p>\n\n<a class=\"gb-button gb-button-61352769 gb-button-text\" href=\"https:\/\/mpw-rechtsanwaelte.com\/en\/contact\/\">Contact us<\/a>\n\n<div style=\"height:100px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n<h2 class=\"gb-headline gb-headline-beb73afa gb-headline-text\">FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions about the Narcotic Substances Act in Austria<\/h2>\n<div class=\"gb-container gb-container-c687c15c gb-accordion\">\n<div class=\"gb-container gb-container-d8c4ff5a gb-accordion__item gb-accordion__item-open\" data-transition=\"slide\">\n\n<button class=\"gb-button gb-button-4c0ec94f gb-accordion__toggle gb-block-is-current\" id=\"gb-accordion-toggle-4c0ec94f\"><span class=\"gb-button-text\"><strong>What does the Austrian Narcotic Substances Act (SMG) regulate?<\/strong><\/span><span class=\"gb-icon\"><svg xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewbox=\"0 0 448 512\" width=\"1em\" height=\"1em\" aria-hidden=\"true\" role=\"img\" class=\"gb-accordion__icon\"><path d=\"M207.029 381.476L12.686 187.132c-9.373-9.373-9.373-24.569 0-33.941l22.667-22.667c9.357-9.357 24.522-9.375 33.901-.04L224 284.505l154.745-154.021c9.379-9.335 24.544-9.317 33.901.04l22.667 22.667c9.373 9.373 9.373 24.569 0 33.941L240.971 381.476c-9.373 9.372-24.569 9.372-33.942 0z\" fill=\"currentColor\"><\/path><\/svg><svg xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewbox=\"0 0 448 512\" width=\"1em\" height=\"1em\" aria-hidden=\"true\" role=\"img\" class=\"gb-accordion__icon-open\"><path d=\"M240.971 130.524l194.343 194.343c9.373 9.373 9.373 24.569 0 33.941l-22.667 22.667c-9.357 9.357-24.522 9.375-33.901.04L224 227.495 69.255 381.516c-9.379 9.335-24.544 9.317-33.901-.04l-22.667-22.667c-9.373-9.373-9.373-24.569 0-33.941L207.03 130.525c9.372-9.373 24.568-9.373 33.941-.001z\" fill=\"currentColor\"><\/path><\/svg><\/span><\/button>\n\n\n<div id=\"gb-accordion-content-7b936dc8\" class=\"gb-accordion__content\"><div class=\"gb-container gb-container-7b936dc8\">\n\n<p>The Narcotic Substances Act defines which substances qualify as narcotic substances and regulates how they may be handled. In addition to criminal prosecution, it expressly pursues public health and preventive objectives and affects not only dealers but also consumers. <\/p>\n\n<\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"gb-container gb-container-cd045100 gb-accordion__item\" data-transition=\"slide\">\n\n<button class=\"gb-button gb-button-966a0132 gb-accordion__toggle\" id=\"gb-accordion-toggle-966a0132\"><span class=\"gb-button-text\"><strong>Which substances fall under the SMG?<\/strong><\/span><span class=\"gb-icon\"><svg xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewbox=\"0 0 448 512\" width=\"1em\" height=\"1em\" aria-hidden=\"true\" role=\"img\" class=\"gb-accordion__icon\"><path d=\"M207.029 381.476L12.686 187.132c-9.373-9.373-9.373-24.569 0-33.941l22.667-22.667c9.357-9.357 24.522-9.375 33.901-.04L224 284.505l154.745-154.021c9.379-9.335 24.544-9.317 33.901.04l22.667 22.667c9.373 9.373 9.373 24.569 0 33.941L240.971 381.476c-9.373 9.372-24.569 9.372-33.942 0z\" fill=\"currentColor\"><\/path><\/svg><svg xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewbox=\"0 0 448 512\" width=\"1em\" height=\"1em\" aria-hidden=\"true\" role=\"img\" class=\"gb-accordion__icon-open\"><path d=\"M240.971 130.524l194.343 194.343c9.373 9.373 9.373 24.569 0 33.941l-22.667 22.667c-9.357 9.357-24.522 9.375-33.901.04L224 227.495 69.255 381.516c-9.379 9.335-24.544 9.317-33.901-.04l-22.667-22.667c-9.373-9.373-9.373-24.569 0-33.941L207.03 130.525c9.372-9.373 24.568-9.373 33.941-.001z\" fill=\"currentColor\"><\/path><\/svg><\/span><\/button>\n\n\n<div id=\"gb-accordion-content-22b8bc76\" class=\"gb-accordion__content\"><div class=\"gb-container gb-container-22b8bc76\">\n\n<p>The Act distinguishes between narcotic drugs, psychotropic substances and precursor chemicals. In practice, it primarily concerns substances such as cannabis, cocaine, heroin, MDMA, amphetamines, methamphetamine, LSD, as well as certain plants and fungi. <\/p>\n\n<\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"gb-container gb-container-4fc8ac9c gb-accordion__item\" data-transition=\"slide\">\n\n<button class=\"gb-button gb-button-28ea49aa gb-accordion__toggle\" id=\"gb-accordion-toggle-28ea49aa\"><span class=\"gb-button-text\"><strong>Is possession of drugs for personal use punishable?<\/strong><\/span><span class=\"gb-icon\"><svg xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewbox=\"0 0 448 512\" width=\"1em\" height=\"1em\" aria-hidden=\"true\" role=\"img\" class=\"gb-accordion__icon\"><path d=\"M207.029 381.476L12.686 187.132c-9.373-9.373-9.373-24.569 0-33.941l22.667-22.667c9.357-9.357 24.522-9.375 33.901-.04L224 284.505l154.745-154.021c9.379-9.335 24.544-9.317 33.901.04l22.667 22.667c9.373 9.373 9.373 24.569 0 33.941L240.971 381.476c-9.373 9.372-24.569 9.372-33.942 0z\" fill=\"currentColor\"><\/path><\/svg><svg xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewbox=\"0 0 448 512\" width=\"1em\" height=\"1em\" aria-hidden=\"true\" role=\"img\" class=\"gb-accordion__icon-open\"><path d=\"M240.971 130.524l194.343 194.343c9.373 9.373 9.373 24.569 0 33.941l-22.667 22.667c-9.357 9.357-24.522 9.375-33.901.04L224 227.495 69.255 381.516c-9.379 9.335-24.544 9.317-33.901-.04l-22.667-22.667c-9.373-9.373-9.373-24.569 0-33.941L207.03 130.525c9.372-9.373 24.568-9.373 33.941-.001z\" fill=\"currentColor\"><\/path><\/svg><\/span><\/button>\n\n\n<div id=\"gb-accordion-content-86d55a0c\" class=\"gb-accordion__content\"><div class=\"gb-container gb-container-86d55a0c\">\n\n<p>Possession of narcotic drugs is punishable even if it is intended exclusively for personal use. Austrian law does not provide for any legally permitted minimum quantity. <\/p>\n\n<\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"gb-container gb-container-4bd6e931 gb-accordion__item\" data-transition=\"slide\">\n\n<button class=\"gb-button gb-button-76d33ff7 gb-accordion__toggle\" id=\"gb-accordion-toggle-76d33ff7\"><span class=\"gb-button-text\"><strong>Is the consumption of narcotic drugs punishable in Austria?<\/strong><\/span><span class=\"gb-icon\"><svg xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewbox=\"0 0 448 512\" width=\"1em\" height=\"1em\" aria-hidden=\"true\" role=\"img\" class=\"gb-accordion__icon\"><path d=\"M207.029 381.476L12.686 187.132c-9.373-9.373-9.373-24.569 0-33.941l22.667-22.667c9.357-9.357 24.522-9.375 33.901-.04L224 284.505l154.745-154.021c9.379-9.335 24.544-9.317 33.901.04l22.667 22.667c9.373 9.373 9.373 24.569 0 33.941L240.971 381.476c-9.373 9.372-24.569 9.372-33.942 0z\" fill=\"currentColor\"><\/path><\/svg><svg xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewbox=\"0 0 448 512\" width=\"1em\" height=\"1em\" aria-hidden=\"true\" role=\"img\" class=\"gb-accordion__icon-open\"><path d=\"M240.971 130.524l194.343 194.343c9.373 9.373 9.373 24.569 0 33.941l-22.667 22.667c-9.357 9.357-24.522 9.375-33.901.04L224 227.495 69.255 381.516c-9.379 9.335-24.544 9.317-33.901-.04l-22.667-22.667c-9.373-9.373-9.373-24.569 0-33.941L207.03 130.525c9.372-9.373 24.568-9.373 33.941-.001z\" fill=\"currentColor\"><\/path><\/svg><\/span><\/button>\n\n\n<div id=\"gb-accordion-content-b6e7ab77\" class=\"gb-accordion__content\"><div class=\"gb-container gb-container-b6e7ab77\">\n\n<p>The mere consumption of narcotic drugs is not expressly criminalised. However, since consumption generally presupposes prior possession or acquisition, in practice there is almost always a punishable handling of narcotic drugs involved. <\/p>\n\n<\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"gb-container gb-container-bcdca013 gb-accordion__item\" data-transition=\"slide\">\n\n<button class=\"gb-button gb-button-eb6296b7 gb-accordion__toggle\" id=\"gb-accordion-toggle-eb6296b7\"><span class=\"gb-button-text\"><strong>What does the law mean by \u201chandling narcotic drugs\u201d?<\/strong><\/span><span class=\"gb-icon\"><svg xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewbox=\"0 0 448 512\" width=\"1em\" height=\"1em\" aria-hidden=\"true\" role=\"img\" class=\"gb-accordion__icon\"><path d=\"M207.029 381.476L12.686 187.132c-9.373-9.373-9.373-24.569 0-33.941l22.667-22.667c9.357-9.357 24.522-9.375 33.901-.04L224 284.505l154.745-154.021c9.379-9.335 24.544-9.317 33.901.04l22.667 22.667c9.373 9.373 9.373 24.569 0 33.941L240.971 381.476c-9.373 9.372-24.569 9.372-33.942 0z\" fill=\"currentColor\"><\/path><\/svg><svg xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewbox=\"0 0 448 512\" width=\"1em\" height=\"1em\" aria-hidden=\"true\" role=\"img\" class=\"gb-accordion__icon-open\"><path d=\"M240.971 130.524l194.343 194.343c9.373 9.373 9.373 24.569 0 33.941l-22.667 22.667c-9.357 9.357-24.522 9.375-33.901.04L224 227.495 69.255 381.516c-9.379 9.335-24.544 9.317-33.901-.04l-22.667-22.667c-9.373-9.373-9.373-24.569 0-33.941L207.03 130.525c9.372-9.373 24.568-9.373 33.941-.001z\" fill=\"currentColor\"><\/path><\/svg><\/span><\/button>\n\n\n<div id=\"gb-accordion-content-fadeaef9\" class=\"gb-accordion__content\"><div class=\"gb-container gb-container-fadeaef9\">\n\n<p>The term is broadly defined and includes, among other things, acquisition, possession, production, cultivation, transport, import and export, as well as offering or supplying narcotic drugs.<\/p>\n\n<\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"gb-container gb-container-00a3df37 gb-accordion__item\" data-transition=\"slide\">\n\n<button class=\"gb-button gb-button-24251ebc gb-accordion__toggle\" id=\"gb-accordion-toggle-24251ebc\"><span class=\"gb-button-text\"><strong>What penalty applies under \u00a7 27 SMG in cases of personal use?<\/strong><\/span><span class=\"gb-icon\"><svg xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewbox=\"0 0 448 512\" width=\"1em\" height=\"1em\" aria-hidden=\"true\" role=\"img\" class=\"gb-accordion__icon\"><path d=\"M207.029 381.476L12.686 187.132c-9.373-9.373-9.373-24.569 0-33.941l22.667-22.667c9.357-9.357 24.522-9.375 33.901-.04L224 284.505l154.745-154.021c9.379-9.335 24.544-9.317 33.901.04l22.667 22.667c9.373 9.373 9.373 24.569 0 33.941L240.971 381.476c-9.373 9.372-24.569 9.372-33.942 0z\" fill=\"currentColor\"><\/path><\/svg><svg xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewbox=\"0 0 448 512\" width=\"1em\" height=\"1em\" aria-hidden=\"true\" role=\"img\" class=\"gb-accordion__icon-open\"><path d=\"M240.971 130.524l194.343 194.343c9.373 9.373 9.373 24.569 0 33.941l-22.667 22.667c-9.357 9.357-24.522 9.375-33.901.04L224 227.495 69.255 381.516c-9.379 9.335-24.544 9.317-33.901-.04l-22.667-22.667c-9.373-9.373-9.373-24.569 0-33.941L207.03 130.525c9.372-9.373 24.568-9.373 33.941-.001z\" fill=\"currentColor\"><\/path><\/svg><\/span><\/button>\n\n\n<div id=\"gb-accordion-content-cacad398\" class=\"gb-accordion__content\"><div class=\"gb-container gb-container-cacad398\">\n\n<p>Anyone who acquires or possesses narcotic drugs exclusively for personal use faces a penalty of imprisonment of up to six months or a fine of up to 360 daily penalty units. Personal use does not render the conduct exempt from punishment, but it may result in a reduced penalty range or in a discontinuation of prosecution. <\/p>\n\n<\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"gb-container gb-container-c840f57c gb-accordion__item\" data-transition=\"slide\">\n\n<button class=\"gb-button gb-button-a6735fa2 gb-accordion__toggle\" id=\"gb-accordion-toggle-a6735fa2\"><span class=\"gb-button-text\"><strong><strong><strong>What does the threshold quantity mean in Austrian drug law?<\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/span><span class=\"gb-icon\"><svg xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewbox=\"0 0 448 512\" width=\"1em\" height=\"1em\" aria-hidden=\"true\" role=\"img\" class=\"gb-accordion__icon\"><path d=\"M207.029 381.476L12.686 187.132c-9.373-9.373-9.373-24.569 0-33.941l22.667-22.667c9.357-9.357 24.522-9.375 33.901-.04L224 284.505l154.745-154.021c9.379-9.335 24.544-9.317 33.901.04l22.667 22.667c9.373 9.373 9.373 24.569 0 33.941L240.971 381.476c-9.373 9.372-24.569 9.372-33.942 0z\" fill=\"currentColor\"><\/path><\/svg><svg xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewbox=\"0 0 448 512\" width=\"1em\" height=\"1em\" aria-hidden=\"true\" role=\"img\" class=\"gb-accordion__icon-open\"><path d=\"M240.971 130.524l194.343 194.343c9.373 9.373 9.373 24.569 0 33.941l-22.667 22.667c-9.357 9.357-24.522 9.375-33.901.04L224 227.495 69.255 381.516c-9.379 9.335-24.544 9.317-33.901-.04l-22.667-22.667c-9.373-9.373-9.373-24.569 0-33.941L207.03 130.525c9.372-9.373 24.568-9.373 33.941-.001z\" fill=\"currentColor\"><\/path><\/svg><\/span><\/button>\n\n\n<div id=\"gb-accordion-content-8ea28c03\" class=\"gb-accordion__content\"><div class=\"gb-container gb-container-8ea28c03\">\n\n<p>The decisive factor is not the gross total weight of the drugs, but the quantity of the expressly prohibited active substance contained within them. The threshold quantity is defined by statute and by regulation. <\/p>\n\n<\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"gb-container gb-container-81993635 gb-accordion__item\" data-transition=\"slide\">\n\n<button class=\"gb-button gb-button-8af4d7da gb-accordion__toggle\" id=\"gb-accordion-toggle-8af4d7da\"><span class=\"gb-button-text\"><strong><strong><strong>Is diversion possible under \u00a7 27 SMG?<\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/span><span class=\"gb-icon\"><svg xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewbox=\"0 0 448 512\" width=\"1em\" height=\"1em\" aria-hidden=\"true\" role=\"img\" class=\"gb-accordion__icon\"><path d=\"M207.029 381.476L12.686 187.132c-9.373-9.373-9.373-24.569 0-33.941l22.667-22.667c9.357-9.357 24.522-9.375 33.901-.04L224 284.505l154.745-154.021c9.379-9.335 24.544-9.317 33.901.04l22.667 22.667c9.373 9.373 9.373 24.569 0 33.941L240.971 381.476c-9.373 9.372-24.569 9.372-33.942 0z\" fill=\"currentColor\"><\/path><\/svg><svg xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewbox=\"0 0 448 512\" width=\"1em\" height=\"1em\" aria-hidden=\"true\" role=\"img\" class=\"gb-accordion__icon-open\"><path d=\"M240.971 130.524l194.343 194.343c9.373 9.373 9.373 24.569 0 33.941l-22.667 22.667c-9.357 9.357-24.522 9.375-33.901.04L224 227.495 69.255 381.516c-9.379 9.335-24.544 9.317-33.901-.04l-22.667-22.667c-9.373-9.373-9.373-24.569 0-33.941L207.03 130.525c9.372-9.373 24.568-9.373 33.941-.001z\" fill=\"currentColor\"><\/path><\/svg><\/span><\/button>\n\n\n<div id=\"gb-accordion-content-52db9c3e\" class=\"gb-accordion__content\"><div class=\"gb-container gb-container-52db9c3e\">\n\n<p>Yes. In particular in cases of a first offence and where the conduct is connected to personal use, proceedings may be dealt with by way of diversion or discontinued, for example subject to conditions such as counselling or a medical examination.<\/p>\n\n<\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>The Austrian Narcotic Substances Act (Suchtmittelgesetz \u2013 SMG) regulates the handling of substances that may cause addiction or endanger health. Many people automatically associate this law with severe penalties, crime and illegality. In reality, however, it adopts a comparatively differentiated approach. Its purpose is not only to combat illegal drug trafficking, but above all to &#8230; <a title=\"Narcotic Substances Act (Suchtmittelgesetz &#8211; SMG) in Austria: Overview of Rules and Penalties\" class=\"read-more\" href=\"https:\/\/mpw-rechtsanwaelte.com\/en\/narcotic-substances-act-austria\/\" aria-label=\"Read more about Narcotic Substances Act (Suchtmittelgesetz &#8211; SMG) in Austria: Overview of Rules and Penalties\">Read more<\/a><\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":11,"featured_media":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[41],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-3886","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","hentry","category-drug-offences-law"],"acf":[],"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO plugin v27.3 - https:\/\/yoast.com\/product\/yoast-seo-wordpress\/ -->\n<title>Narcotic Substances Act in Austria: Overview of Rules and Penalties<\/title>\n<meta name=\"description\" content=\"The Narcotic Substances Act in Austria regulates the handling of drugs, protects public health, and supports affected individuals and consumers.\" \/>\n<meta name=\"robots\" content=\"index, follow, max-snippet:-1, max-image-preview:large, max-video-preview:-1\" \/>\n<link rel=\"canonical\" href=\"https:\/\/mpw-rechtsanwaelte.com\/en\/narcotic-substances-act-austria\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:locale\" content=\"en_US\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:type\" content=\"article\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:title\" content=\"Narcotic Substances Act in Austria: Overview of Rules and Penalties\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:description\" content=\"The Narcotic Substances Act in Austria regulates the handling of drugs, protects public health, and supports affected individuals and consumers.\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:url\" content=\"https:\/\/mpw-rechtsanwaelte.com\/en\/narcotic-substances-act-austria\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:site_name\" content=\"MPW Rechtsanw\u00e4lte - Wiener Kanzlei f\u00fcr Strafrecht\" \/>\n<meta property=\"article:published_time\" content=\"2026-02-12T16:02:07+00:00\" \/>\n<meta property=\"article:modified_time\" content=\"2026-03-14T14:38:49+00:00\" \/>\n<meta name=\"author\" content=\"Frank\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:card\" content=\"summary_large_image\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:label1\" content=\"Written by\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:data1\" content=\"Frank\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:label2\" content=\"Est. reading time\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:data2\" content=\"7 minutes\" \/>\n<script type=\"application\/ld+json\" class=\"yoast-schema-graph\">{\"@context\":\"https:\\\/\\\/schema.org\",\"@graph\":[{\"@type\":\"Article\",\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/mpw-rechtsanwaelte.com\\\/en\\\/narcotic-substances-act-austria\\\/#article\",\"isPartOf\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/mpw-rechtsanwaelte.com\\\/en\\\/narcotic-substances-act-austria\\\/\"},\"author\":{\"name\":\"Frank\",\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/mpw-rechtsanwaelte.com\\\/en\\\/#\\\/schema\\\/person\\\/c0c014cadf764a3bf3715475cdedc7aa\"},\"headline\":\"Narcotic Substances Act (Suchtmittelgesetz &#8211; 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