In strict compliance with the French Transport Code art L5332-3, the port authority and port terminal operators shall take security measures to control and prohibit or supervise the introduction onto terminals and on board ships of the following prohibited items :
- Firearms (*)
- Explosive materials and equipment
- Incendiary devices or substances
- Articles the possession, carriage or transport of which on board a ship is prohibited by law, Union law or by virtue of an international maritime agreement in force to which France is a party, on account of security risks.
(*) Article L 315-1 of the French Internal Security Code prohibits the carrying or transporting of weapons, including category C weapons, without legitimate reason. Any offence committed may be punishable by 2 years' imprisonment and a €30,000 fine (art L317-8).
Fight against drug trafficking
Following the passing of the law of 13 June 2025, port facilities are fully involved in the fight against drug trafficking, in particular by introducing additional security measures and controls, as well as associated offences. The possession or transit of such substances is strictly prohibited and therefore also controlled in port areas.
Information: hunting and sporting firearms
Possession of a hunting permit or a sports shooting permit is only valid for the legitimate transport or carrying of the weapon if it is intended to be used for hunting or any directly related activity.
Special Port Police Regulations approved by prefectoral order strictly prohibit the practice of hunting throughout the port. Staff operating or moving around a terminal or port area, within the Port Security Limits, may not, in a work context unconnected with any direct activity related to hunting or sport shooting, rely solely on the possession and presentation of a hunting permit or licence as immediate legitimate justification for transporting their weapon, even if this justification is valid and the conditions under which the weapon is transported comply with security rules.