Yes, collecting feathers in France is legal under strict conditions. Wild bird feathers fall under the Code de l’Environnement (Art. L. 411-1), requiring permits for species protected under EU Directive 2009/147/EC. Domestic poultry feathers (e.g., chicken, duck) are exempt if sourced from regulated farms. Non-compliance risks fines up to €150,000 or imprisonment under Code pénal (Art. 421-1).
Key Regulations for Collecting Feathers in France
- Protected Species Ban: Collecting feathers from wild birds listed in Annex I of EU Directive 2009/147/EC (e.g., raptors, songbirds) is prohibited without a dérogation from the Direction Régionale de l’Environnement, de l’Aménagement et du Logement (DREAL). Permits are granted only for scientific or conservation purposes.
- Domestic Poultry Exemption: Feathers from commercially raised poultry (e.g., Gallus gallus domesticus) are unrestricted if sourced from EU-approved slaughterhouses (Regulation (EC) No 853/2004). Traceability records must be maintained for 2 years.
- 2026 Compliance Shift: France’s 2026 Plan Biodiversité tightens enforcement on illegal feather trade, mandating digital permits for all wild bird feather exports. Non-EU imports require CITES certification (Regulation (EU) 2017/842).
Violations trigger penalties under Code de l’Environnement (Art. L. 415-3), including confiscation and criminal charges for endangered species trafficking. Local Fédération Départementale des Chasseurs offices provide guidance on permitted species and permit applications.