Looduskaitseseadus

Looduskaitseseadus is the primary Estonian law governing the protection of nature, biodiversity and landscape values. It provides the framework for safeguarding wild flora and fauna, their habitats, and the landscapes that support ecological processes, scientific research and cultural heritage. The act sets out the general objectives of nature protection, including the preservation of biodiversity, sustainable use of natural resources and public access to nature in a manner that does not harm protected values.

Key provisions include the designation of protected objects and protection regimes, prohibitions on harming or removing protected species, destroying their habitats, and trading in protected fauna or flora. It also regulates activities that can affect protected areas, defines permit requirements for such activities, and outlines procedures for scientific research, collection of samples, and monitoring. The act covers management planning and restoration measures, as well as public participation in protection decisions.

Protected areas established under the act include nature reserves, national parks and other protected landscapes. Each area has a management plan and specific use restrictions to maintain ecological integrity. The act defines the roles of competent authorities, authorization procedures, and enforcement mechanisms.

Enforcement is carried out by the Environmental Inspectorate and other authorities, with penalties ranging from administrative fines to more serious sanctions for violations. The law also provides for restoration of damage and, where appropriate, compensation.

Looduskaitseseadus interacts with EU nature directives and Natura 2000 obligations, aligning national protections with broader biodiversity objectives while supporting research, monitoring and data collection.