6.5. Controls on the field and licensing

Currently, EU legislation requires Member States to conduct field tests on 20% to 30% of the total hemp acreage declared for direct payments. In addition, some countries impose further regulations, such as mandatory licensing for hemp cultivation. Therefore, it is crucial for farmers to stay in close contact with local and national authorities responsible for licensing and field inspections. National hemp associations and farmers' unions can also provide valuable guidance on these regulatory requirements.

To avoid potential issues, some farmers proactively engage with law enforcement agencies. Since hemp and recreational cannabis can appear similar to the untrained eye, notifying local police about the presence of hemp fields can prevent misunderstandings. Additionally, farmers often place signs at the edges of their fields to inform the public that the Cannabis sativa L. being cultivated is legal and not intended for recreational use.