According to Spanish legal regulations, Cannabis social clubs  are non-profit organizations (or associations) of users who get together to consume cannabis and connect to others without having to turn to the black market. They are based on the fact that the personal consumption of this product has never been considered a crime under Spanish legislation. However, the consumtion and posession in a public place are  punishable by fines from 600€ to 30000€. Cultivation of marijuana plants is permitted so long as they are not in view of the public, a change which was introduced in the ‘ley mardazo’ passed by the previous PP government. But note that for small quantities (although this is not defined), it is an administrative offense not criminal. However, trafficking is a criminal offence, and can result in quite hefty jail sentences.