Species that must not be exterminated
By Wespenprofis.ch · Reviewed by:Fachbewilligung Schädlingsbekämpfung VFB-S · Updated: 3 July 2026
At a glance
Bumblebees and all wild bee species, including the violet carpenter bee, are strictly protected in Switzerland — killing them is illegal, and relocation is only permitted with a cantonal permit. The honey bee is a farm animal, so biocides are prohibited. The harmless paper wasp should also be left alone rather than destroyed.
Not every stinging insect may be destroyed. Some species are under strict legal protection, others are simply so useful that destroying them cannot be justified. This guide explains which species are affected and how to proceed correctly instead.
Strictly protected: bumblebees and wild bees
All bumblebee species and every wild bee — including the strikingly large violet carpenter bee — are strictly protected under Annex 3 of the NHV (the Swiss Nature Conservation Ordinance). Treating them with biocides is illegal. If relocation really is necessary, for example because the nest sits in an untenable spot, a cantonal permit is required. In most cases a nest is only active for a few weeks anyway and can simply be sat out.
The honey bee: a special case
The honey bee is not a wild animal but a farm animal, and it belongs to a beekeeper. The same rule applies here: biocides are off limits. If you have a swarm or a colony in a roller shutter box or chimney, the best step is to contact a local beekeeping association — the bees are usually relocated free of charge.
Not protected, but worth sparing
The paper wasp and the European hornet are not on the legal protection list, but both are considered peaceful and ecologically valuable. For both species we recommend leaving them be or, if the nest genuinely causes problems, arranging a professional relocation rather than destruction.
What you should actually do
- Have the species identified beyond doubt, using a photo if in any doubt.
- Bumblebees, wild bees or honey bees: do not intervene yourself.
- Bring in a professional or a beekeeping association for any permitted relocation.
- Only commission treatment for common wasps or German wasps where there is a genuine health risk.
For a full overview of the Swiss legal position, see our pillar article «Are wasps and hornets protected?», and find all the species profiles under /arten.
Frequently asked questions
What happens if I destroy a protected bumblebee nest?
It is illegal and can be prosecuted, because bumblebees are strictly protected under Annex 3 of the Swiss Nature Conservation Ordinance (NHV). At most, relocation with a cantonal permit is allowed, and usually only in genuine emergencies.
What should I do about a swarm or colony of honey bees in my house?
The honey bee is a farm animal, so biocides are prohibited. Contact a beekeeper or beekeeping association in your area — they will usually collect the swarm free of charge.
Do I really have to spare the paper wasp?
There is no legal obligation, but the paper wasp is barely aggressive and ecologically useful. We recommend leaving its small, open nest undisturbed wherever possible.