On 11 November, the Saeima supported in the final reading amendments to the Hunting Law that stipulate the minimal area requirement for the registration of hunting districts.

From now on, owners of hunting rights may register a hunting district with a hunting area of at least 350 hectares. The requirement will also apply to owners of hunting rights with adjacent hunting areas, who have entered into a mutual agreement on joint use of hunting rights.

The hunting district area shall be at least 1000 hectares, if registered by the user of hunting rights.

The amendments also stipulate larger areas for hunting roe deer and wild boar. Instead of the previous 200 hectares, from now on, the area shall be at least 350 hectares.

According to the amendments, hunting will also be allowed in urban territories if permitted by the local government, under the condition that game animals pose a threat to public order or safety, or may cause damage.

In addition to the current exceptions, hunting will also be allowed in areas outside registered hunting districts to pursue injured game animals.

The amendments also provide for the use of heat-sensor weapon-sights during night-time to hunt wild boar, fox, and raccoon.

Saeima Press Service