United Kingdom: Cannabis Laws (Plain-Language Guide)
Last updated: October 14, 2025
Legal notice: This page is informational only and not legal advice. Always verify on the official websites linked here and follow the strictest rule that applies to you. See our Legal Disclaimer & No-Warranty and Terms of Use.
High-Level Status
- Recreational: Illegal under the Misuse of Drugs Act 1971 (cannabis is controlled).
- Medical: Permitted only in limited, specialist-supervised circumstances (unlicensed cannabis-based products for medicinal use in humans – CBPMs). Access remains constrained and case-specific.
- CBD & cannabinoids: CBD products may be lawful depending on THC content and compliance with Home Office drug licensing and food/consumer rules. Mislabeling or presence of controlled cannabinoids can trigger enforcement.
Possession, Supply, and Cultivation (Overview)
- Possession and supply of cannabis are criminal offences under the Misuse of Drugs Act 1971 and associated regulations.
- Cultivation (including home-grow) without appropriate licensing is an offence.
Medical Access (CBPMs)
- Prescribed only by specialist clinicians, typically in hospital settings. Availability and coverage are limited.
- Import, manufacture, and distribution are subject to licensing and MHRA/Home Office oversight.
CBD, Industrial Hemp & Licensing
- CBD products must avoid controlled cannabinoids (e.g., THC) or comply with licensing; see Home Office Drug Licensing resources and the cannabis/CBD factsheet.
- Industrial hemp cultivation requires appropriate Home Office licensing.
Driving (Drug Driving Law)
- The UK enforces per-se limits for certain drugs, including THC. It is illegal to drive while unfit or with blood levels above specified limits (THC limit is 2 µg/L as per official table).
- Penalties include fines, bans, and possible imprisonment. Always check current limits and guidance on GOV.UK.
Travel & Borders
- Do not carry cannabis through UK borders or onto aircraft. Import/export is tightly controlled. Medical possession without correct documentation/licensing risks seizure and prosecution.
Verify on Official Sources
- Misuse of Drugs Act 1971 (primary statute via legislation.gov.uk).
- GOV.UK official pages on drug driving law, drug-driving limits, and Home Office drug licensing.