Day 3410 (Saturday) 10th October 2026.

This is Cannes 

and this is Beaulieu and Saint-Jean Cap-Ferrat.

We are in the hunting season in France at the moment so here's some information on the rules and regulations…

Everything you need to know about hunting in France

In France, hunting is designated as a well-regulated leisure activity. Indeed, the more than one million hunting practitioners must follow precise regulations, whether on the weapons used or on hunting methods. A truly passionate world for those who practice it, hunting presents itself in different ways, each having its own ritual and technical peculiarities, not to mention the importance of local implantation.

Which type of hunting to choose?

A true French passion, hunting currently has many enthusiasts. The practice is carried out in different forms. Alone or in groups, with firearms or quieter weapons such as a hunting bow, each hunter is able to opt for their preferred type of hunting. Note, however, that in a hunting property or in an approved region, it is preferable to inquire more about the types of hunting that can be practiced among the several types of authorised hunts.

Among the most common are:

walk-up hunting,

hunting with hounds

stalking

hunting with hounds

bow hunting

falconry

waterfowl hunting

underground hunting

traditional hunting methods

What does the law say about hunting practices?

Ranked third among the favourite leisure activities of the French is hunting. Its practice is strictly governed by laws and regulations in force. Indeed, just for the hunt-able species in France, they count 89 in number. They are divided into different categories, including sedentary game, waterfowl, and migratory birds. Regarding the laws related to its practice, it must be recognised that they are based practically on property rights, established since the French Revolution. However, French hunting regulations have evolved over the years.

The Verdeille law texts, in 1964, thus required the creation of associations, including ACCAs (Approved Communal Hunting Associations) and AICCAs (Approved Intercommunal Hunting Associations). The objective was to strengthen the right of access to hunting for all. However, the 2012 hunting law will entrust hunters with their role in biodiversity management. To better regulate hunting practices, the law of July 24, 2019, confirms the importance of biodiversity management in relation to hunting practices. Thus, on January 1, 2020, the public establishment "French Office for Biodiversity" was born, combining the French Agency for Biodiversity and the National Hunting and Wildlife Office.

Which weapon to choose for hunting in France?

As a hunter, weapon possession is required. One even has the right to own several to use the most suitable one, both for the hunting mode and the game. Nevertheless, hunting weapons authorised in France are category C weapons or less. These can include semi-automatic repeating shoulder firearms or manually repeating firearms or manufactured weapons. Weapons and launchers, but with a projectile propelled non-pyrotechnically and with muzzle energy of 20 joules or more are also authorised for hunting. The hunting bow is a concrete example. Don't forget, however, that possession of category C weapons must be declared for hunting in France.

What is the OFB and what is its role?

A public establishment dedicated to biodiversity conservation, the French Office for Biodiversity or OFB was created on January 1, 2020, by merging the French Agency for Biodiversity (AFB) and the National Hunting and Wildlife Office (ONCFS). Its main mission consists of protecting and restoring terrestrial, aquatic, and marine biodiversity, as well as the balanced and sustainable management of water, in mainland France and overseas. Today, the agency brings together nearly 3000 field agents to mobilise actors, decision-makers, and citizens, including fishermen, farmers, and hunters. Hunting safety in France is indeed governed by the OFB, with hunters contributing to the balance of biodiversity.

Is a permit required to hunt in France?

A hunting license has been mandatory for hunting in France since 1975. The current law also specifies that you must obtain validation of the hunting license before you can start practicing. To be able to hunt during a hunting season in France, you must have your hunting license validated. The minimum age required to obtain the license is 16 years old, but it must be accompanied by an authorisation for supervised hunting for minors.

Can you hunt all year round?

Among the many regulations surrounding hunting in France is the respect for hunting seasons. The general opening is from the first Sunday of September to the 4th Sunday of September. As for the season closure, it is done on the last weekend of February of the following year. However, these dates may vary according to prefectural decrees. Moreover, for certain hunt-able species such as wild boar, deer, or roe deer, the hunting season in France varies. Indeed, for wild boar and roe deer, the hunting season starts on June 1, while for deer, you can hunt them from September 1. However, regardless of the type and season of hunting, the practice is only done during the day.

How to avoid hunting accidents?

Forests and mountains are common spaces. In order to coexist and share them fairly, it is essential to follow the necessary safety rules. During a hunting trip in France, the practitioner is obliged to mark out the area and be as visible as possible, such as by wearing fluorescent clothing. Thus, among hunters, it is possible to easily identify each other while greatly reducing the risk of accidents. It is also essential to make noise to warn other hunters on post of your presence. Knowing how to communicate between hunters is also very important to know the positions and routes.

How to learn about hunting?

The French Federation of Hunters or the National Federation of Hunters is the best-known organisation for overseeing hunting practices in France. It is not only responsible for promoting the practice and controlling it according to current regulations, but it also informs about all news related to hunting in France. Official sources such as the Public Service website are also able to inform about hunting rights. Departmental and regional hunting federations in France are also in place to be closer to French hunters. If you have hunting enthusiasts in your circle, they will also be excellent sources of information, especially as they have extensive experience in the practice. Hunting communities have numerous platforms and discussion forums to share experiences and the most effective hunting techniques.

Where can you hunt in France?

For hunting in France, property rights remain one of its basic foundations, especially for hunting areas. Indeed, you can hunt without authorisation on your own land if it is less than 20 hectares. On public territories, as well as private properties of more than 20 hectares, hunting may be authorised, but with new laws on hunting associations, in some cases, it is necessary to obtain permission from an ACCA. The hunter must then become a member of the association in order to obtain hunting authorisation. To learn more about the most beautiful regions of France for hunting, it is preferable to be part of the associations in your region or department.

Conclusion

Indeed, it is essential to know all the laws and regulations in force on hunting in France for legal practice and respect for biodiversity. However, for the best practice conditions, it is also important to buy your hunting equipment online, from approved online stores recognised for their quality products and services.