Firewood harvesting near water bodies is prohibited: what fines threaten violators.

According to inkorr.com: In conditions of energy instability, Ukrainians are increasingly turning to

firewood heating

. However, not everyone knows that it is prohibited to cut even dry trees growing near water bodies. The law protects these territories, recognizing them as nature conservation areas, so any unauthorized logging is considered an offense. This is confirmed by

Novyny.LIVE

.

Lawyer Oleg Kozlyak explains that the Water Code of Ukraine provides for the creation of coastal protective zones along rivers, lakes, and ponds. Their purpose is to maintain water purity, prevent soil erosion, and support the ecosystem. Lands in these areas belong to the state or communities, so using them for timber harvesting without the appropriate permission is illegal.

What is prohibited near water bodies

According to Ukrainian legislation, the following actions are prohibited in coastal zones:

• to cut down or damage trees and bushes without special permission;

• to carry out construction or economic works;

• to store firewood, garbage, or any waste;

• to light fires or burn grass.

The lawyer emphasizes that even cutting dry wood without official permission is considered illegal logging.

What is the fine for cutting down trees for firewood near water bodies

For illegal destruction or

damage to trees, fines are provided

under Article 65 of the Code of Ukraine on Administrative Offenses:

• for individuals - from 510 to 765 hryvnias;

• for officials - from 1,020 to 1,530 hryvnias.

Moreover, offenders may be required to compensate for damages determined by the environmental inspection if harm is caused to the environment.

The government reminds: firewood can be purchased through official forestry enterprises or using the

“DrovayE”

system. This is a safe and legal way to prepare for winter without the risk of fines.

The state enterprise 'Forests of Ukraine' has announced the start of timber supplies for the population before the heating season.

Firewood prices

remain at the previous level - from 1,000 to 1,200 hryvnias per cubic meter.

Considering the growing popularity of firewood heating, it is important to remember the legislation that protects nature. Logging in coastal zones can lead not only to fines but also to serious environmental consequences. Therefore, it is better to use legal ways to obtain firewood to avoid problems and contribute to ecosystem preservation.