Wildlife law regulates the protection, use, and reproduction of the animal world in Georgia. This field covers hunting, fishing, trade in fauna, and the management of protected areas. Legislation strictly protects biodiversity, especially species included in the "Red List." For businesses and individuals, obtaining licenses and permits (e.g., establishing a hunting farm, fishing) and complying with international trade regulations (CITES) are relevant. Illegal hunting (poaching) or destruction of protected species leads to severe administrative and criminal liability. Legal services in this area include navigating permitting procedures, defense against fines, and consulting on environmental obligations.
What Does Wildlife Legal Service Cover?
Our experts offer full legal support in the use of bio-resources:
- Hunting Farm License: Obtaining a license to establish a hunting farm in a specific area and agreeing on a management plan.
- Fishing License: Obtaining a license for commercial fishing in the Black Sea and inland water bodies (lakes, reservoirs).
- CITES Permits: Export-import permits for endangered species (exotic animals, plants).
- Zoos and Aviaries: Permits for keeping wild animals in captivity or semi-free conditions.
- Environmental Disputes: Defense against charges of poaching or damage to the environment (destruction of animals).
- Scientific Research: Permits for removing Red List species for scientific or reproductive purposes.
Common Scenarios and Needs
Investors wishing to lease a lake for a fish farm often face problems aligning water use and environmental permits. Also, problems are frequent for owners of exotic animals (parrots, reptiles) who lack proper documentation (CITES certificate), leading to confiscation at the border. Hunting farms need assistance with legal mechanisms to combat poachers.
Georgian Legislation and Regulations
The field is regulated by the "Law of Georgia on Animal World" and the "Law on the Red List and Red Book of Georgia". Licensing rules are outlined in the "Law on Licenses and Permits". International trade is regulated by the CITES Convention. Sanctions for illegal hunting are defined in the Administrative Offences and Criminal Codes.
The Process: How a Specialist Works
When obtaining a license, the lawyer prepares tender documentation and a management plan together with biologists. In the case of CITES, the lawyer checks the species status in the appendices and prepares an application to the Ministry of Environmental Protection. In a dispute, the lawyer requests a review of the damage calculation methodology, as damage is often calculated incorrectly.
Why Legal.ge?
The use of wildlife resources is a specific and environmentally sensitive area. Legal.ge gives you access to lawyers who understand biodiversity protection legislation. Specialists on our platform will help you conduct business legally (fishing, hunting, tourism) and use natural resources sustainably. Act in harmony with nature with Legal.ge.
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