Law No. 89/2025 on Hunting.

This Law establishes the standards for the management and utilization of wildlife populations within the Republic of Albania. The Law defines hunting as a regulated activity intended to balance traditional and recreational practices with the necessity of preserving biological diversity. It classifies wildlife as a national asset, thus placing the responsibility for its administration and protection under state oversight and specific institutional controls.
The Law categorizes land into designated hunting zones and prohibited areas to ensure that hunting activities do not interfere with fragile ecosystems. It introduces a rigorous planning system, requiring ten-year management plans and detailed annual use plans for every authorized area. These documents serve to regulate the volume of wildlife harvested, ensuring that extraction rates do not exceed the natural regenerative capacity of the species involved.
The Law establishes strict prohibitions on hunting during periods of reproduction, nesting, and the rearing of young. Furthermore, it mandates the use of humane methods for the capture and harvesting of wildlife, explicitly banning the use of non-selective or injurious tools like leghold traps. This focus extends to the regulation of breeding reserves and semi-wild environments where wildlife is managed for repopulation or specialized study.
To ensure professional standards, the Law outlines specific requirements for the licensing and conduct of hunters. Individuals must possess valid permits and adhere to a national "Hunter’s Manual," which dictates technical and ethical behavior in the field. The Law also provides for the identification and traceability of hunting products and trophies, ensuring that all wildlife-related commerce is conducted transparently and within legal parameters.
Administrative oversight is maintained through a system of monitoring and penalties designed to deter illegal activities. The Law empowers relevant ministries to adjust hunting seasons and quotas based on current scientific data regarding population health and environmental conditions.