Removal or relocation of nests of protected insect species
Performance specification
All wild animals are subject to general species protection. According to this, wild animals may not be caught, injured or killed wantonly or without reasonable cause (§ 39 para. 1 no. 1 BNatSchG).
A large number of species are also specially protected. They are listed in Annex 1 of the Federal Species Protection Ordinance. Bumblebees and all other wild bees as well as hornets are subject to this special protection. The animals must not be caught or injured and their nests must not be damaged or destroyed (§ 44 para. 1 nos. 1 and 3 BNatSchG).
Wasps, on the other hand, are subject to general species protection and may only be controlled if there is a reasonable reason for doing so. Since there are different species of wasps, it must be checked which species is involved here.
The species that build free-hanging nests are neither aggressive nor snacking and generally do not seek contact with humans. As a rule, there is no reasonable reason to remove their nests. However, only two wasp species (German wasp Vespula germanica and common wasp Vespula vulgaris) build their nests in burrows, in natural cavities (e.g. woodpecker holes) or in dark cavities in buildings (also in nest and shutter boxes) and are interested in sweet drinks or food. The relocation, destruction or removal of insect nests may therefore require authorisation in individual cases. Most insect species are harmless and do not need to be relocated. Wasp or hornet nests directly on or in the house (e.g. in the roller shutter box) can be critical, especially if allergy sufferers are affected.
Special case of wasp infestation in late summer:
Two species of wasp swarm every year in August/September. Nuisance can usually be avoided without relocation if food, leftover food, waste containers and sweet drinks are kept sealed. Tips can be found in the current press or on the Internet (keyword "wasp plague") and the Hesse Consumer Window.Process flow
Make a written request with the following information:
- Which insect species should be removed
(wasp, hornet)? Clarify in advance by telephone if necessary. - Location of the nest on your property or at your house (address, location sketch)
- Reasons for relocation or control
(e.g. location directly next to windows, doors,
Affecting small children or allergy sufferers - Date for relocation or control
- If you commission a company to do this:
Name and address of the company
Note : If you have difficulties in identifying the insect exactly, you can contact the local nature conservation authority.
- Which insect species should be removed
Which documents are required?
Informal application, vote by telephone.
What are the fees?
No costs are incurred for the approval of the relocation of the insect colony. If, on the other hand, you apply for the killing of an insect colony, a chargeable decision will be issued.
Legal basis
Start your request directly online
Who do I need to contact?
- the lower nature conservation authority:
district administration or
- for towns with more than 50,000 inhabitants, -
the municipal administration - Local contacts are also the nature conservation associations, beekeepers and - in an acute emergency - the fire brigade.