La Chasse, a popular activity in France that has been a tradition for centuries, is regulated by laws and regulations to ensure the protection of wildlife and the safety of hunters and non-hunters alike. In France, hunting is considered a sport, but it is also a heavily regulated activity. To obtain a hunting license, hunters must pass a hunting exam and complete a safety course, which is valid for five years and must be renewed after that period. The right to hunt in France is not absolute and is subject to certain conditions. Hunting is only allowed during specific periods of the year, which are determined by the government based on the species being hunted. These periods are known as the “opening” and “closing” seasons, and they depend on the type of game being hunted. The government determines the hunting dates each year and publishes them in an official document known as the “arrêté prefectoral.”
Small game hunting includes hunting rabbits, hares, and foxes, while big game hunting includes hunting deer, wild boars, and chamois. Bird hunting includes hunting ducks, geese, and pheasants.
During the hunting season, which is generally from September to March, hunters are required to follow strict regulations. They must wear bright orange clothing to ensure their visibility and use only authorized firearms and ammunition. Hunters are also required to follow specific rules related to the hunting area, such as not hunting in prohibited areas and respecting the natural environment.
There are restricted areas in France where hunting is not allowed or is limited to ensure the protection of wildlife and the safety of hunters and non-hunters alike. These areas are designated by the government and can include national parks, nature reserves, private property, prohibited zones, and military zones. Owners of private property can prohibit hunting on their land by posting signs or informing hunters directly.
Prohibiting chasse on your land
If you want to prohibit hunting on your land, you should know that since July 27, 2000, Act no. 2000-698 of July 26, 2000, authorizes you to do so in the name of personal convictions. You can decide to ban hunting on your property to preserve wildlife or simply to feel safer. It is important to note that under no circumstances will you have to justify this personal decision to hunters. However, the steps to take in order to refuse hunting on your land will depend on the type of hunting association in your commune. If you are dealing with a hunting association under law 1901, you will need to create a refuge to register your refusal to allow hunting on your land. On the other hand, if you are dealing with an Association Communale de Chasse Agréée (ACCA) under the Verdeille law, there are different rules to follow. Click here for more detailed information.
If your land is less than 150 meters from a house, you will need to apply for a refuge. But if it extends beyond this limit, hunting is authorized by default. In this case, you must indicate your wish to prohibit hunting by submitting a request. The regulations concerning hunting distance near a property will depend on the type of game you plan to hunt. Generally, for small game hunting, you may hunt within 150 meters of a property as long as you have permission from the landowner. But for big game hunting, you need to be further away from the property, usually around 300 meters or more. It’s important to check the local hunting regulations and obtain permission from the landowner before hunting near a property.
Hunting with Dogs
If you’re hunting large game with dogs, you’re required to post signs around the perimeter of the hunting area to indicate that hunting is actively happening. These signs should be visible from all sides of the perimeter and should be placed at regular intervals. However, it’s worth noting that hunting with dogs is only permitted during specific hunting seasons and under certain conditions.
These conditions may include obtaining special permits, adhering to specific hunting methods, and following local regulations. In conclusion, hunting in France is a popular sport, but it is also heavily regulated to ensure the safety of hunters and non-hunters and the protection of wildlife. The right to hunt is subject to specific conditions, and hunters must obtain a license and follow strict regulations during the hunting season. If you have any doubts or questions about the necessary regulations and requirements, it’s always best to consult with local hunting authorities.
Other activities during the hunting season
If you’re planning on engaging in countryside activities during the hunting season, such as hiking, biking, or horseback riding, there are some precautions you should take. First and foremost, it’s recommended that you wear bright, high-visibility clothing to make yourself more visible to hunters. Additionally, it’s essential to stay on designated trails and paths, and to avoid wandering into hunting areas. It’s also important to be aware of the hunting schedule in your area. Hunting is typically allowed during specific times of the day, and hunters are required to abide by these regulations. If you’re planning an outdoor activity, it’s a good idea to check with local authorities to find out the hunting schedule in your area, and to plan your activities accordingly. Another thing to keep in mind is that hunting dogs may be present in the woods during the hunting season. If you’re hiking or walking with a dog, it’s important to keep them on a leash and under control at all times to avoid any potential conflicts with hunting dogs. Finally, it’s worth noting that certain areas may be closed to the public during the hunting season. These closures are typically indicated by signs or other markers, and it’s important to respect these closures for your own safety and the safety of others.
