A forerunner of the law was the "Lichtspielgesetz" from 1920,[6] which restricted the publication of movies in cinemas without former approval and review by a central commission.

[8] The Protection of Young Persons Act regulates: 1 Unaccompanied children <16 years only permitted in a restaurant or licensed premises during the time of 5 a.m until 11 p.m. to consume a meal or a have a non alcoholic beverage.

However, if the minor is accompanied by his parent or legal guardian the age limit the consume such beverages drops down to 14 years.

Contrary to the former "Polizeiverordnung zum Schutze der Jugend", the "Jugendschutzgesetz" does not penalize children and young people but rather the responsible adult failing to enforce the provisions of the law.

[14] Making media which is indexed for being considered "harmful to young persons" accessible to minors as well as violating further provisions which are set out in § 15, 21 and 28 JuSchG can be prosecuted by imprisonment up to one year or a fine.