Yes, owning a hedgehog in France is legal under strict conditions. The species Atelerix algirus (North African hedgehog) is permitted as a pet, but others like the European hedgehog (Erinaceus europaeus) are protected and prohibited. Compliance with the Code de l’environnement (Article L411-1) and Arrêté du 8 octobre 2018 is mandatory, with recent 2026 EU biodiversity regulations tightening controls on non-native species.
Key Regulations for Owning a Hedgehog in France
- Species Restrictions: Only Atelerix algirus may be kept as a pet; all other hedgehog species are banned under France’s wildlife protection laws enforced by the Ministère de la Transition Écologique.
- CITES Compliance: If imported, hedgehogs must be accompanied by CITES documentation (Annex B) to verify legal acquisition, per Règlement (UE) 2017/160.
- Breeding & Trade Licensing: Breeders require authorization from DDPP (Direction Départementale de la Protection des Populations) under Article L214-1 of the rural code, with mandatory health certificates for each animal.
Violations may result in fines up to €150,000 or imprisonment under Article L415-3 of the environmental code. Local prefectures may impose additional municipal restrictions.