What police say you should do if your neighbours are smoking cannabis and how to report it

The smell of cannabis is a common one in many areas of the UK and despite the fact that using it for recreational purposes is illegal, the drug is still widely used.

It's distinctive smell is a big giveaway and users often smoke the drug with little concern for potential police action. Despite calls to legalise the use of cannabis, as is seen in Amsterdam and several US states, in the UK it remains against the law to possess and use the plant, except in a few rare medical cases where it's usually in tablet form.

The Class B drug's strong odour can frequently be detected on Lancashire's high streets, residential areas, and parks. There have been numerous attempts to decriminalise cannabis, also known as weed. A vocal minority continues to use it openly despite its illegality.

READ MORE:

• What the law says you should do if an intruder breaks into your home

• Burglar's astonishing 41 home crime spree to feed £200 a day cocaine habit

For now, anyone caught with this Class B drug could face up to five years in prison, an unlimited fine, or both. Supplying and producing the drug could result in a longer sentence of up to 14 years in prison, an unlimited fine, or both, reports YorkshireLive.

If you're plagued by the smell of cannabis from your neighbours, you might be wondering what can be done about it. Here are some key points to consider if you want to address the issue of weed being smoked in your vicinity.

Is it legal for people to smoke cannabis on their own property?

In short, no. Any notion that it's permissible is simply an urban myth. A police spokesperson informed Derbyshire Live in 2018: "The possession of cannabis is an offence and will be dealt with by police."

"It is a widespread issue and we are focusing our resources to target those connected with the cultivation and dealing of the drug to help crack down on the issue. We would encourage anyone who suspects drug activity in their community to contact us."

Will my neighbours know I reported them if I call the police?

A police representative assured that they would "never give away a caller's identity", adding: "We wouldn't say information has come from a neighbour as that narrows it down. We'd just say we received a call". However, the police aren't obliged to protect your identity if, for instance, a neighbour knows you've complained about them before and mentions this to officers at the scene.

The police will attempt to defuse neighbour disputes

The representative also mentioned that officers on patrol might use tip-offs (often referred to in police jargon as 'community intelligence') to decide where they patrol.

If they were to smell the cannabis themselves, they might knock on the door and approach the subject that way. She added that people could always call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 if they wanted to remain anonymous throughout the process.

What will happen to my neighbours if I report them?

Police have said that this could depend on a number of variables, including the amount of cannabis they have, and whether someone has had any previous convictions. They may receive a caution or they could be prosecuted.

If they are selling drugs as well as using them, they could even face prison time.