It is strictly regulated.
Collecting feathers in Romania is permitted only under strict conditions due to biodiversity protection laws. Wild bird feathers are protected under national and EU regulations, requiring permits from the Ministry of Environment, Waters and Forests. Domestic poultry feathers may be collected if sourced sustainably, but commercial exploitation demands additional compliance checks.
Key Regulations for Collecting Feathers in Romania
-
Wild Bird Protection (Law 13/1993, aligned with EU Birds Directive 2009/147/EC): Collecting feathers from protected or migratory species is prohibited without special permits, which are rarely granted. Violations incur fines up to €20,000 or criminal liability under the Environmental Code (Law 249/2015).
-
Domestic Poultry Feathers (Order 114/2021): Feathers from farmed birds (e.g., chickens, ducks) may be collected if sourced from licensed abattoirs. Documentation proving humane slaughter and waste management is mandatory for commercial use.
-
2026 Compliance Shifts: New EU Nature Restoration Law drafts may tighten feather collection from wild birds, including stricter monitoring by the Romanian Ornithological Society (SOR). Businesses must pre-register feather-based products with the National Environmental Guard (GNM).