Poland holds consultations on proposed Hunting Law amendments

Public consultations are underway in the Sejm regarding a civic draft to amend the Hunting Law in Poland. The proposed changes aim to regulate how game animal populations are managed and include several significant restrictions.

Key proposals include increasing the minimum distance for shooting near buildings from 150 meters to 700 meters, though owners could consent to a reduction back to 150 meters. Other measures include a ban on feeding or baiting animals without environmental director approval, a prohibition on night hunting using night vision or thermal imaging, and a ban on hunting with beaters.

The draft also introduces mandatory medical and psychological examinations for hunters every five years, stricter penalties for hunting under the influence of alcohol, and a requirement for a public register of hunting and management activities. Additionally, the Minister of Environment would review the list of game species at least once every five years. Various regional branches of the Polish Hunting Association (PZŁ) have issued positions regarding these proposed legislative changes.