Is CBD legal in France in 2026?

In brief: yes, the sale of CBD flowers and resins is legal in France, provided they contain less than 0.3% THC and are not presented as medicines. Since May 2026, it is mainly CBD products intended to be swallowed (oils, gummies, drinks, etc.) that have come under scrutiny by the authorities. Here’s a simple overview of the current law.

CBD is not a controlled substance

Cannabidiol (CBD) is one of the many natural compounds found in hemp. Unlike THC, it is not classified as a controlled substance. This is why products made from hemp varieties low in THC can be sold legally.

The 0.3% THC rule

In France, a CBD product must contain less than 0.3% THC. This threshold applies to the finished product, whether it is a flower, resin, or something else. Above that threshold, the product is considered a controlled substance, regardless of its CBD content.

The hemp must also come from authorized varieties listed in the European catalogue and be grown by registered farmers. Private individuals are still prohibited from growing it.

CBD flowers: banned, then authorized

It’s been a bumpy road:

• Late 2021, a decree attempted to ban the sale of raw hemp flowers and leaves.
• January 2022, the Council of State suspended the ban as an emergency measure.
• December 29, 2022, the Council of State definitively overturned it, ruling that it was unjustified.

Since then, the sale of CBD flowers and resins containing less than 0.3% THC has been authorized in France.

What changed in 2026

In spring 2026, the authorities (the Ministry of Agriculture and the DGCCRF) stepped up inspections of food products containing CBD. The reason: a European regulation known as “Novel Food” requires prior authorization for novel foods, and none has been granted for CBD to date.

This applies to CBD products intended to be swallowed: oils, capsules, gummies, chocolates, drinks, and dietary supplements. Industry associations have filed appeals.

Flowers and resins are not covered by these food inspections: their sale remains authorized under the conditions described above.

What is strictly prohibited

• Synthetic cannabinoids: HHC and its derivatives were classified as controlled substances in 2023, and other compounds followed. Some unscrupulous shops still sell “CBD” products sprayed with these compounds. Find out how to spot them in Fake CBD: the dangers of synthetic cannabinoids.
• Therapeutic claims: sellers are not allowed to present CBD as a remedy (for sleep, pain, anxiety, etc.). A website that does so is breaking the law.
• Sales to minors: CBD products are for adults only.

What about driving?

This is often misunderstood: even though CBD is legal, flowers and resins contain traces of THC that can be detected by a saliva test. And the courts consider driving after using THC to be an offense, regardless of the amount. Our advice is simple: don’t use CBD before getting behind the wheel.

How to buy legally

Choose a French shop that clearly displays its company details, the origin of its products, and compliance with the 0.3% THC threshold, and that makes no promises of medical effects. Our guide Buying CBD flowers online: 7 criteria for finding a reliable shop gives you the full list.

At Legit Growerz, all our CBD flowers and CBD resins comply with these rules and contain no synthetic compounds.

This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Regulations change: this article reflects the situation as of October 2026. CBD products are for adults only, contain less than 0.3% THC, and are not medicines.