Legalization in Austria: How legal is Hemp?

Read time: 9-10 minutes

The legalization of hemp is a controversial topic worldwide. In this post, we take a closer look at the Austrian legal situation regarding hemp. The question of how legal Hemp in Austria really is raises a multitude of questions:

1. What regulations apply to the possession, cultivation, and sale of hemp?
2. What penalties are imposed for violations?
3. Terms related to "Cannabis Use"

We provide you with a comprehensive overview of the current situation, how to order cannabis seeds legally, and the possible consequences of not complying with the laws.

Narcotic Drugs Act: Current Laws on Marijuana

The Austrian Narcotic Drugs Act regulates the handling of psychotropic substances to prevent abuse and protect public health. This includes substances that induce addiction or affect the central nervous system, such as hallucinations, motor disturbances, thinking impairments, behavior changes, or mood alterations.

Cannabis, which contains THC (a psychoactive substance), falls under these substances. In Austria, possession, cultivation, and distribution are only allowed under specific circumstances, such as for authorized companies, pharmacies, research institutions, and non-narcotic purposes cultivation.

Hemp Shops and the Law: What's Allowed?

The business with hemp shops and the sale of their products is completely legal in Austria. These shops exclusively deal with products free of THC and do not provide any advice or information regarding consumption or production. Among the many hemp shop products are also those containing CBD, another compound with diverse applications.

freya CBDCURE is a reputable company specializing in renowned CBD products. These CBD products are THC-free <0,2% and are produced in compliance with legal regulations using EU-hemp. CBD extracts, scents, massage oils, and teas are examples of products that can be acquired without hesitation.

Recently, CBD has been added to the official list of EU medicinal products. This inclusion means that CBD can be prescribed without being a prescription drug. CBD-containing products labeled as medicinal can only be sold in pharmacies. Non-medical products, however, can still be purchased from hemp shops, where they can be legally sold.

Penalties for Cannabis Offenses

Violations of hemp laws in Austria can lead to various penalties depending on the severity of the offense. Here are some examples:

• Possession of Hemp: Can result in up to one year of imprisonment or a fine of up to 360 daily rates.
• Dealing in Public: Can lead to up to 2 years of imprisonment.
• Professional Dealing: Can result in up to 3 years of imprisonment.
• Sale to Minors: Can lead to up to 3 years of imprisonment.
• Dealing in Connection with a Criminal Organization: Can result in up to 3 years of imprisonment.
• Cultivation of Hemp for Commercial Use: Can result in up to 3 years of imprisonment.
• Quantity = 15x Threshold Amount: Can lead to up to 5 years of imprisonment.

It's important to note that the penalties can vary depending on the severity of the violation and other factors. Individuals caught in possession of cannabis can face different consequences, including fines, imprisonment, or health-related measures such as medical supervision or detoxification.

The Best Hemp Seeds for Austria – approx. 0.3% THC

without warranty

• CBD Lemon #1: This strain has been specifically developed for cold climate zones and suits the Austrian weather well.
• Cannaboom CBD +: A popular strain with low THC content and high CBD content. Ideal for cultivation in Austria.
• Eden CBD: A strain with low THC content and robust growth.
• Joanne's CBD: This strain has been designed for cultivation in urban environments and is characterized by its low height.

The debate over the legalization of cannabis in Austria is characterized by ongoing development. While some countries have already taken steps towards legalization, the situation in Austria remains complex. Growing interest in the medical applications of hemp and increasing societal acceptance could lead to a revision of current laws in the future.

Terms Related to "Cannabis Use"

Here are some important terms related to smoking hemp:

• Cannabis: Refers to plants of the hemp genus. This includes the flowering or fruit-bearing parts of the hemp plant from which resin has not been removed, excluding leaves and seeds.
• Hemp as Medicine: The medical use of hemp is not yet sufficiently researched and therefore not definitively proven. However, there are positive indications of its effectiveness in various health issues such as pain, nausea and vomiting, glaucoma, spasticity, epilepsy, asthma, movement disorders, eczema, and withdrawal symptoms.
• CBD: Cannabidiol is a weak psychoactive compound in the hemp plant with various applications.
• Extraction: This refers to the separation of hemp flower and resin from the plant to produce different products.
• Hemp Cannabis: This plant genus includes the hemp plant, which can be used for both industrial and ornamental purposes.
• Hashish: This resin is extracted from the hemp plant and contains psychoactive substances.
• Indica: This type of hemp acts as a natural painkiller and produces a body high.
• Joint: A joint is a paper filled with hashish or hemp that is rolled for smoking. It is often mixed with tobacco.
• Marijuana: This refers to the dried flower of the hemp plant that can be smoked.
• Sativa: This type of hemp produces a head high and has different effects compared to Indica.
• THC: Tetrahydrocannabinol is a psychotropic substance found in the female hemp flower. THC acid is converted to tetrahydrocannabinol through heating.
• Vaporizer/Vaporisator: This is a device that vaporizes the filled substances for smoking instead of burning them.