Is Collecting Feathers Legal in Singapore After the 2026 Policy Reforms?

It is strictly regulated.

Collecting feathers in Singapore is legal only if sourced from licensed poultry farms or permitted under the Wildlife Act, with strict penalties for protected species. The Agri-Food & Veterinary Authority (AVA) enforces poultry-derived feather regulations, while the National Parks Board (NParks) governs wild bird protections. Recent 2026 amendments to the Wildlife Act tighten controls on native species, requiring permits for even non-protected feathers if part of ecological surveys.

Key Regulations for Collecting Feathers in Singapore

  • Wildlife Act Compliance: Feathers from native or migratory birds listed under the Wildlife Act (e.g., hornbills, kingfishers) require NParks permits; unauthorized collection incurs fines up to S$50,000 or imprisonment.
  • Poultry Sector Oversight: Feathers from commercial poultry (e.g., chickens, ducks) must be sourced from AVA-licensed abattoirs; unprocessed feathers are classified as agricultural waste, subject to disposal regulations.
  • 2026 Amendments: Stricter traceability rules for feathers used in artisanal or commercial products (e.g., fashion, crafts) mandate documentation of origin, aligning with CITES-like controls for non-protected species.