"Loi Montagne", 9 January 1985

In France, a law (85-30), adopted in 1985, is specially dedicated to the development and protection of mountainous areas. This text is important as mountains cover 1/5th of French territory. Its goal is to enable development without compromising the environment. It is now codified in tourism and urbanism codes.

► Décret n°2007-407, 23 March 2007
This decree describes more precisely the conditions under which a place is considered a mountain hut.

► Décret n°2004-69, 16 January 2004
France has 5 different mountain massifs: Alps, Massif Central, Pyrénées, Vosges and Jura. This decree defines precisely the boundaries of each of these massifs. It is important to do so as the "Conseil national de la montagne" (see above) is divided in 5 "Comités de massifs" (Massifs committees)

Mountain products

In France, the name "mountain" can not be written freely on food products. It is a quality indicator for customers, guaranteed by the Ministry of Agriculture. It also certifies that the product actually comes from a mountainous area.

 ► Décret n°2000-1231, 15 December 2000

This decree provides details on how the name "mountain" can be used. For example, it provides that authorities have first to grant the producer an authorisation before it can actually use the name.

► Décret n°85-994, 20 September 1985
This text describes the composition and the functioning of the "Conseil national de la montagne" (National Mountain Council). In the Council is discussed the evolution of French politics on mountains. Its members define objectives and actions for a better development, spatial planning and protection of mountains.

Non legally binding act

► Charte national en faveur du Développement durable dans les Stations de Montagne
This Charter was adopted by the "Association Nationales des Maires des Stations de Montagne" in October 2007. It contains 8 points in favour of sustainable development in French ski resorts, among which preservation of landscapes and natural spaces and development of sustainable tourism.