PANAMA'S ENVIRONMENTAL LAWS

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​Panama has a comprehensive legal framework protecting its forests, wildlife, rivers, marine ecosystems and natural resources. This guide provides an overview of the principal environmental laws most relevant to residents, property owners, developers and visitors in the Bocas del Toro Archipelago. Each law is summarized in plain language and links to the relevant legislation or guidance where available.

 

Constitutional & Framework Laws

• Constitution of Panama (Articles 118–121)

• Law 41 of 1998 – General Environmental Law

• Law 287 of 2022 – Rights of Nature

 

Wildlife & Biodiversity

• Law 24 of 1995– Wildlife Law

• Resolution AG-0172-2004​

• Protected Wildlife in Bocas del Toro

• Resolution DM-0657-2016 – Threatened Flora and Fauna

 

Forests & Trees

• Resolution DM-0055-2020 – Tree Felling and Pruning

• Resolution DM-0657-2016– Protected Wildlife Species in Bocas del Toro

• Law 1 of 1994 – Forestry Law.

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Marine & Coastal Protection

•  Law  304 of 31 May 2022 – Protection of Coral Reef Systems and Associated Ecosystems

• Law 44 of 2006   – ARAP Marine Resources, Fisheries and Aquatic Ecosystems

• Executive Decree 123 of 2009 (for EIAs affecting coastal projects)

 

Environmental Management

• Executive Decree 123 OF 2009 – Environmental Impact Assessments

• Wastewater Regulations

• Watershed Protection​​​​​​​​​​​

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Sewage & Wastewater 

• Resolution No. 351 OF 26-07-2000 under the DGNTI-COPANIT regulations.

• Law No. 21 of 1980 (amended by Law No. 57 of 2008),

• Law 41 of 1998, Water Resources & Watersheds

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