No, feeding wild pigeons in Sweden is prohibited under the Naturvårdsverket (Swedish Environmental Protection Agency) guidelines, as it disrupts local ecosystems and public health. Municipalities enforce fines up to SEK 1,000 for violations, with stricter penalties in Stockholm and Gothenburg due to 2026 urban wildlife management updates.
Key Regulations for Feeding Wild Pigeons in Sweden
- Prohibition under the Swedish Environmental Code (1998:808): Feeding wild birds, including pigeons, is classified as an unauthorized disturbance under Chapter 2, Section 11, unless permitted for conservation purposes.
- Local ordinances by Länsstyrelsen (County Administrative Boards): Municipalities like Malmö and Uppsala have explicit bans, enforced via ordningsstadgan (public order statutes), with 2026 amendments targeting urban nuisance species.
- Public Health Act (2004:168): Feeding pigeons is tied to sanitation risks; municipalities may issue directives under Section 12 to prevent disease vectors, as seen in recent Gothenburg enforcement actions.
Violations are typically processed through municipal environmental inspectors, with appeals directed to Mark- och miljödomstolen (Land and Environment Court). Exemptions require written approval from Naturvårdsverket for scientific or conservation purposes only.