Many people are unsure whether growing cannabis is legal in the Czech Republic or not. The answer is not as simple as it may seem at first glance. In the Czech Republic, cannabis cultivation is regulated by Act No. 167/1998 Coll., which classifies cannabis based on the THC content in its mature state.

Cannabis with THC content below 1%

Cannabis strains with a THC content of less than 1% can be grown without restriction up to a cultivation area of 100 m2. Above this limit, the grower has a notification obligation. Cannabis with THC below 1% is commonly referred to as industrial hemp or CBD cannabis. These are just distinguishing names, though — it's still the same cannabis plant, just different varieties with varying levels of active substances. You can’t tell the THC content just by appearance or smell.

Cannabis with THC content over 1%

Cannabis strains with a THC content over 1% may legally be cultivated only by individuals or entities with a license for handling narcotic and psychotropic substances. This license is issued by the OPL Inspectorate under the Ministry of Health.

There is a common belief that it is legal to grow up to five cannabis plants with higher THC content without a permit. This is not true. Cannabis with THC content over 1% may only be legally grown with the appropriate license. If you wish to obtain such a license, you must submit an application.

The Czech Republic is considered one of the more lenient European countries when it comes to cannabis laws. However, growing cannabis can still be penalized. Penalties may range from a warning or a fine to imprisonment. Before you decide to grow cannabis, make sure you are aware of the current laws in your country and location.