The big hunting season opens in Northern Cyprus on November 2: police warn of strict rules

Starting November 2, the so-called “Big Hunt” season officially begins in Northern Cyprus. This was announced by the Police General Directorate, which published a list of rules and restrictions mandatory for all hunters.

The department emphasized that hunting will be permitted only on strictly designated days and exclusively in areas specified in the official decree. To participate, a valid hunting license, registered weapon and appropriate equipment are required. Monitoring of compliance will be intensified, and violations may result in serious administrative and criminal penalties.

Hunting is allowed for certain species of game and only in designated zones. The use of uncertified ammunition is prohibited, as is shooting closer than 250 meters to residential areas and 500 meters to bodies of water. Hunting from vehicles, quad bikes and agricultural machinery is also prohibited.

The police reminded that hunters should avoid posting photos and videos of game on social media in order not to violate current regulations. All participants of the season must familiarize themselves in advance with the full list of permitted territories and dates, as well as obtain the necessary permits.

Law enforcement authorities stressed that hunting season is not only a tradition, but also a responsibility to nature and society. Violators will be held accountable, including confiscation of weapons and revocation of licenses.

The full list of warnings from the PGM is as follows:

Hunting is prohibited:

• At night — between sunset and sunrise.

• Within 500 meters of dams, reservoirs and ponds.

• Closer than 250 meters to residential areas and settlements.

• From any vehicle, including cars, motorcycles and quad bikes.

• Using any tools, devices or hunting methods not provided for by law.

Additional restrictions:

• No more than three dogs may be used, and all animals must be registered to the hunter.

• Shooting at targets that are not game is prohibited.

• Motorized vehicles may enter hunting zones only up to 50 meters from the nearest road. Beyond that, hunters must proceed on foot.

• Parking vehicles in areas where hunting is prohibited is not allowed.

Transporting weapons and ammunition:

• Hunting rifles may be transported only disassembled, in a case or box — in the trunk or cargo compartment of a vehicle.

• In vehicles without a trunk, weapons must also be disassembled and packed.

• Transporting a weapon outside a case, even with parts removed, is prohibited.

• Possession, carrying or using an unregistered weapon, as well as hunting without a valid license, is considered a crime.

• The use and possession of ammunition produced in Southern Cyprus is also prohibited.

Additional instructions:

• Going hunting with a weapon is allowed only from 04:00 to 19:00 on designated days.

• License holders may not take weapons out of their homes or transport them outside permitted hours without special authorization from the district administration.

• It is strictly forbidden to publish photos or videos showing dismembered or bloody game, or to display a quantity of game exceeding the legal limit — including on social networks.

The police call on all hunters to act responsibly and strictly follow the established rules to avoid fines and ensure the safety of people and nature.