France Enforces Spring Forest Leash Rule for Dogs Through June 30

Overview

• The nationwide rule, which began Wednesday, April 15, 2026, requires dogs to stay on a leash whenever walkers leave forest roads, marked paths, or official trails.
• France’s forest agency (ONF) is patrolling, and some sworn agents can issue €135 fines on the spot, with penalties rising to €750 if a judge handles the case or habitat is damaged.
• The leash duty applies only off official routes in forests, so roads, waymarked paths and GR hiking trails remain exempt during this window unless local rules say otherwise.
• Officials say the limit protects nesting birds and newborn mammals because loose dogs can find, scare, or harm sensitive wildlife during this peak breeding period.
• After June 30, dogs may be off leash in forests only if kept under control within 100 meters, and some mayors set stricter year‑round bans, as dog owners interviewed called the top fine steep and asked for clearer signs.