France has introduced legislation to safeguard the sounds and scents of its rural regions.

The country has enacted a law to protect the 'sensory heritage' of its countryside in response to concerns over the distinctive noises and aromas found in these areas.

On Thursday, senators approved the bill, which had already passed the lower house of parliament last year, as confirmed by Joël Giraud, the Minister for Rural Affairs.

Giraud expressed his joy over the law’s passage, which aims to 'identify and preserve the sensory heritage of rural France.'

The statement added that a better understanding of the typical 'sounds and smells' in rural areas could help 'prevent conflicts between neighbors.'

Giraud stated that regional authorities will be responsible for defining 'rural heritage, including its sensory aspects.'

'This is a major win for rural communities,' he remarked. 'Let’s all do our part to protect the countryside.'

France has witnessed a growing number of social tensions between long-standing rural residents and newcomers to these areas.

A notable case featured Maurice the rooster, who faced a court trial in July 2019 after his early morning crowing upset nearby residents.

The trial highlighted the widening rift between rural and urban France, as the complainants were city dwellers who only visited Saint-Pierre-d'Oléron a few times annually.

'He’s a rooster. Roosters are meant to crow,' said Corinne Fesseau, Maurice’s owner, during the trial.

'That’s the essence of the countryside. We must safeguard it,' she added.

Christophe Sueur, mayor of Saint-Pierre-d'Oléron, called the ruling 'reasonable' and stressed, 'I’m a strong advocate for preserving French traditions, including the rooster’s crow.'

Though Maurice has sadly passed away, Giraud honored him in a tweet celebrating the new law, stating: 'A posthumous win for Maurice the rooster, a true symbol of rural life!'