Fines for blueberries in the forest: how much will you have to pay in 2025.

Summer is the time when strawberries, raspberries, and blueberries bloom. Many people in our country enjoy going 'berry picking', especially for blueberries. However, not everyone knows that such a 'field' activity in the forest can lead to a fine.

Article 70 of the Code of Ukraine on Administrative Offenses defines when it is possible to hold someone accountable for collecting forest berries and what penalties are provided in 2025.

Why you may be fined for berries from the forest

In summer, many people head to the forest to enjoy nature and pick berries. However, such 'picnics' may contradict the law.

According to Article 70 of the Code of Ukraine on Administrative Offenses, people can be fined for unauthorized collection of wild plants and fruits in forest areas.

Such actions may harm rare plants, provoke soil erosion, and increase the risk of forest fires. In 2025, the following actions are considered violations:

• mowing grass or grazing livestock in forest zones without special permission;
• collecting mushrooms, berries, nuts, and other wild plants in prohibited areas or without a forestry ticket;
• collecting natural resources at undefined times or without permission from local authorities or forestry.

What punishment is provided by law

Fines are charged due to the potential harm to the ecosystem from excessive or uncontrolled collection of natural resources, animal grazing, or unreasonable mowing. The fine amounts are set as follows:

• for individuals - from 17 to 51 UAH (1-3 non-taxable minimums);
• for officials - from 51 to 119 UAH (3-7 non-taxable minimums).

These amounts, although small, should still be avoided. However, the law does not specify who exactly is responsible for monitoring compliance with forest regulations.

Earlier we mentioned that even an innocent walk in the forest could end unexpectedly - a few collected mushrooms or nuts in a prohibited area could lead to a fine. We also noted that selling recyclables could bring good profit, but still, not all types of waste can be processed this way - for some, there might be legal issues.

Ukrainians love to pick berries in the forest, but it is important to remember about the restrictions and accountability for violations of the law. Violating the rules can lead to fines, which, although insignificant, can still be troublesome. Therefore, it is wise to be cautious and comply with the law's requirements even in forest areas.