Regulation

Is selling thrush on May 1 allowed?

Publié le 29 avril 2026 - Public Service / Directorate of Legal and Administrative Information (Prime Minister)

On 1er may is approaching and, as every year on this date, thrush will bloom again in the streets of towns and villages. But do you really know the rules that apply to the sale of thrush that day? Public Service reminds you of the main rules to know about this street selling practice which is usually framed by a municipal by-law.

Illustration

While any street sale is in principle subject to authorization, the sale of lily of the valley on 1er may is an exception. An individual or an association can sell thrush by following a few rules. Before you settle, check the regulations at your town hall.

The sale of lily of the valley on 1er may is generally governed by municipal by-laws specifying:

  • sell only wild thrush gathered from the woods (its collection is nevertheless regulated, forest products belonging to their owners);
  • sell in small quantities;
  • sell as a strand without adding other flowers to the bouquet and without packaging;
  • do not settle near a florist (consult the municipal by-laws of your town hall for the distance to be respected);
  • do not use tables, trestles or chairs that can materialize the point of sale;
  • not constitute a danger or inconvenience to pedestrians and vehicles.

If you do not comply with the regulations in force, you risk a fine of 300 €, a lump sum that can be reduced to 250 € and increased to 600 €. If you do not pay within 45 days of the date of sending the offense notice or finding this offense, you are liable to a fine of €3,750 and 6 months imprisonment.

Moreover, Article 446-3 of the Criminal Code states that the police may, in addition, destroy or confiscate the limbs of thrush.

FYI  

If the sale of thrush is generally authorized on 1er but it remains banned every other day of the year.

Please note

Street sales are strictly regulated; so-called "unpacking sales", which allow individuals to sell goods at garage sales, flea markets or sales outlets, for example, are also subject to regulation.

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