Species protection - Apply for an exemption permit for the relocation or destruction of nests of protected insect species

Bumblebees, wild bees, hornets, and other wasp species are subject to special protection, as they are threatened with extinction. They may not be caught, injured, or killed, and their nests may not be damaged or destroyed. You can apply for an exemption from this prohibition under species protection law (artenschutzrechtliches Verbot) once experts have determined that a danger to people still cannot be ruled out through other measures. No exemption is needed for the removal of a nest of the "common wasp" (Vespula vulgaris). Procedure 1. Telephone consultation with an advice centre (see "Further information"). If the problem cannot be resolved by phone, you will be referred on to specialists. 2. On-site assessment by an expert, and clarification of whether the existing danger can be averted by other suitable measures, for example by relocating the nest. 3. If the expert determines that there are no other options for averting the danger, you can submit an application for exemption from the prohibition under species protection law. 4. You may relocate or destroy the nest (or have it relocated or destroyed) once you have received the exemption.