Small farms in villages to be able to operate under clearly established conditions

Chișinău, October 29, 2026 – Small farms in rural communities will be allowed to operate provided they comply with conditions designed to protect public health and the environment, as well as ensure animal welfare. A draft law regulating these conditions was adopted by Parliament in the second reading.

According to the document, the establishment of animal holdings other than non-professional ones within the built-up areas of rural communities may be permitted by a reasoned decision of the local council, subject to compliance with certain requirements. These concern the conformity of the site with urban planning documentation, compliance with sanitary protection zones and environmental protection regulations, as well as proper waste management to prevent pollution and limit emissions, odors, and noise.

The draft decision of the local council will be subject to public consultations, and owners and residents within the sanitary protection zone of the holding will be notified. The decision of the local council will not replace the permits required by law, and the holding may begin operating only after these permits have been obtained.

The document also establishes the maximum number of animals that may be kept on these holdings, depending on the species. Thus, a holding may include up to 150 adult sheep or goats and their offspring; 30 equines, including horses, donkeys, or mules; 30 adult cattle and their offspring; 5,000 quails or pigeons; 3,000 rabbits or poultry; and 100 bee colonies.

The draft law also provides for amendments to the Law on Veterinary Activity aimed at improving the traceability of veterinary medicines. Accordingly, importers, manufacturers, distributors, veterinary medicine retailers, veterinarians, and animal owners will be required, depending on their activities, to record data concerning the placing on the market, distribution, dispensing, and use of these medicines. The data will be recorded through the e-ANSA electronic system, which is connected to the State Register of Veterinary Medicines and other relevant registers.

At the same time, the draft law provides for stricter penalties for purchasing animals subject to mandatory identification and registration that have not been identified in accordance with legal requirements or are not listed in the State Register of Animals. Fines will be imposed for each unidentified or unregistered animal and will range from 1,000 to 1,500 lei for individuals and persons holding positions of responsibility, and from 1,500 to 2,500 lei for legal entities.

The legislative initiative was drafted by Iurie Levinschi, a member of the Parliamentary Faction of the Party of Action and Solidarity.