Regulations no. 761 of 2003 on Animal Protection and Welfare (Protection of Egg-Laying Hens).

These Regulations, in compliance with the provisions of article 32 of the Animal Protection and Welfare Law of 1994 in its consolidated version, harmonise Cyprus Legislation with the European Directives 1999/74/EC laying down minimum standards for the protection of laying hens, and 2002/4/EC on the registration of establishments keeping laying hens. The Regulations apply to establishments for eggs production with more than 350 laying hens and define: premises and establishments for production of eggs for human consumption; friable material allowing hens to satisfy their ethological needs; laying hens, as a species of hens for the production of eggs not intended for incubation. Matters covered by the Regulations include: conditions for keeping laying hens; registration for the activity of egg producer; restriction on import of laying hens from extra-European countries; inspection and control of hens; reduction of noise and specific provisions concerning lighting system in premises, in order to protect the health of the hens and enable them to rest without disorder; hygienic provisions and measures to ensure the cleanliness of premises; design and dimension of cages; measures prohibiting mutilation of hens; alternative breeding systems; use of water in facilities; position of feeding and watering equipments.