Chemical Products Handling Permit

Selling certain hazardous chemical substances and mixtures to private consumers in Germany requires a permit under the Chemicals Act (Chemikaliengesetz, ChemG) and the Chemicals Prohibition Ordinance (ChemVerbotsV). This applies to substances classified with specific hazard pictograms, such as toxic, corrosive, or carcinogenic products. Sales to commercial customers require only a notification, not a full permit.

You apply at the competent state authority (usually the trade supervisory office or district government). The applicant or a designated responsible person must demonstrate professional competence (Sachkunde), typically through relevant training in chemistry, pharmacy, or a comparable field. The permit covers specific product categories and may include conditions on storage, documentation, and customer identification. Pharmacies are exempt from this permit requirement.