A revolution in the regulation of hunting and fishing in Madrid
The Community of Madrid has taken a significant step towards modernising hunting and fishing practices with the approval of the new Hunting and Fishing Law. This ambitious legal framework aims not only to update the sector but also to reinforce environmental protection, and was ratified in an extraordinary meeting of the Governing Council held in Morata de Tajuña.
The regional president, Isabel Díaz Ayuso, emphasised that this is the first specific legislation for these activities in Madrid's history. The main objective of the law is to promote the hunting and fishing sector while ensuring population control of species that may damage crops or transmit diseases to livestock. “It is essential for maintaining the health of our ecosystems,” Ayuso stated.
Among the most relevant innovations is the establishment for the first time of a general minimum size for hunting grounds, set at 250 hectares. For those interested in small game hunting, it will be allowed to operate on lands as small as 50 hectares, provided there is technical justification. Additionally, the fishing regime will be simplified through a clear classification of waters into three categories: hunting grounds, special waters, and private waters.
A crucial aspect of the new legal framework is the implementation of Population Control Plans, which will allow municipalities to manage species such as wild boars or rabbits outside the usual hunting period. This measure aims to prevent significant damage to the countryside and thus improve conditions for local farmers.
In terms of safety, the minimum distance required to carry out hunting activities near populated areas has increased to 150 metres, up from the previous 100 metres. Furthermore, one of the most notable changes is the push towards the digitalisation of the sector; digital licences will be introduced, thus facilitating both administrative procedures and effective monitoring of hunting activities.
However, this new framework also includes an updated sanctioning regime. Minor infractions will be fined between 200 and 1,000 euros; serious infractions will range from 1,000 to 10,000 euros; while very serious infractions may incur fines ranging from 10,000 to 80,000 euros.
Through this comprehensive law, the regional government seeks to unify under a single legal framework both the regulation of hunting and fishing, two activities considered essential for promoting rural development and combating phenomena such as depopulation. Currently, approximately 69% of the Madrid territory is designated for hunting activities, which equates to about 576,000 hectares. Regarding fishing, there are around 46,000 active licences.
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