Genetic engineering; approval and monitoring

Genetic engineering comprises molecular biological methods for the targeted modification of genetic material. The handling of genetic engineering is governed by the Genetic Engineering Act. In Bavaria, the governments of Lower Franconia (for Northern Bavaria) and Upper Bavaria (for Southern Bavaria) are responsible for enforcing the Genetic Engineering Act.

Genetic engineering work may only be carried out in genetic engineering facilities. Genetic engineering law provides for notification, registration and approval procedures, for which appropriate forms are available. It is advisable to contact the competent authority in advance. If you wish to comply with a notification obligation under the Genetic Engineering Act, an informal notification, e.g. by e-mail to the competent authority, is sufficient.
The governments of Lower Franconia (for Northern Bavaria, i.e. for the administrative districts of Lower, Middle and Upper Franconia and the Upper Palatinate) and Upper Bavaria (for Southern Bavaria, i.e. for the administrative districts of Upper Bavaria, Lower Bavaria and Swabia) are responsible for enforcing the Genetic Engineering Act in Bavaria:

Authorizations / approvals for

• Construction and / or operation of genetic engineering facilities (laboratories or production facilities, greenhouses or other closed systems)
• Carrying out genetic engineering work in genetic engineering facilities

Monitoring of

• genetic engineering facilities and work
• release of genetically modified organisms (GMOs), e.g. animals, plants, bacteria, viruses
• products placed on the market that contain or consist of GMOs, unless they are food or animal feed

Contact persons in the field of genetic engineering are available for you at both governments.

Depending on the type of procedure: Usually start immediately or up to 90 days after receipt of the complete documents by the competent authority.

• Application documents depend on the type and scope of the planned project. Consultation with the competent authority is highly recommended.