Fines up to 25 thousand hryvnias: the Ministry of Justice warned about penalties for illegal logging of fir trees.

According to ТСН: Before the Christmas and New Year holidays, Ukrainians receive a reminder: do not violate the law and avoid illegal logging of fir trees.

The Ministry of Justice of Ukraine emphasizes that the unlawful destruction of coniferous trees may lead to administrative and criminal liability.

Fines for illegal logging

For illegal logging of fir trees in the forest, citizens face fines ranging from 510 to 1,020 hryvnias. If the violation occurs again within a year, the fine amount increases to 1,020–1,530 hryvnias. For officials, the penalties are stricter: from 5,100 hryvnias for the first violation to 10,200–15,300 hryvnias for repeats.

For illegal logging of coniferous trees within populated areas, fines for citizens range from 170 to 510 hryvnias, while for officials and entrepreneurs, they are from 510 to 850 hryvnias.

Criminal liability

If illegal logging causes significant damage to the forest, that is, the damages exceed 30,280 hryvnias, criminal liability ensues. In this case, the offender may face a fine from 17,000 to 25,500 hryvnias, probation for up to three years, or limitations or deprivation of liberty for a similar term. The offender must also compensate for the damages caused.

Legal fir trees

The Ministry of Justice also reports that legally sold fir trees, pines, and spruces must have a special chip or label with information about the forestry and the origin of the tree. The locations of official sales are determined by local authorities.

The agency urges purchasing only legal Christmas trees, as this is not only compliance with the law but also a contribution to the preservation of Ukrainian forests.

In a situation where a festive tradition may threaten nature, it is important to follow the rules and choose legal options. The legal sale of fir trees not only complies with the requirements of the law but also helps maintain ecological balance by preserving forest resources for future generations.