Ban on the sale of nitrous oxide effective April 12

Lachgas-Kartuschen und Luftballons liegen in einem Park.

A nationwide ban on the sale of nitrous oxide cartridges will take effect in Berlin on April 12, 2026. Under the new Law on New Psychoactive Substances (NpSG), the ban applies to cartridges with a filling volume of more than eight grams and affects retail sales, online sales, and vending machines. In addition, the purchase, possession, and distribution to persons under the age of 18 are prohibited.

The Senate Departments for Mobility, Transport, Climate Protection, and the Environment, and for Science, Health, and Care, as well as the Berlin City Cleaning Services (BSR), welcomed the measure as an important step toward protecting the environment and public health. Nitrous oxide may still be used in quantities of less than eight grams for professional applications such as cream dispensers.

Focus on Prevention and Environmental Protection

Dr. Ina Czyborra, Senator for Science, Health, and Care, emphasized that legal regulations alone are not enough: “To prevent the misuse of nitrous oxide by children and adolescents, we also need targeted, practical prevention measures. Schools, youth centers, and social media are important channels for educating people about the dangers of nitrous oxide use.”

The Senator for Mobility, Transportation, Climate Protection, and the Environment, Ute Bonde, also highlighted the positive effects for young people, street litter, and waste infrastructure. The BSR has also repeatedly pointed out the dangers posed by improperly disposed cartridges and called for appropriate policy measures to ensure safe disposal.