Firewood Preparation in 2026: What You Can Take from the Forest for Free.

According to ТСН: For many Ukrainian families, firewood remains the primary source of heat, and its preparation is an important stage in preparing for the cold weather. Some people choose to purchase fuel officially, while others try to find resources on their own.

To prepare for winter 2026 without surprises and legal complications, it is important to know which firewood can be taken for free and for which documents are required.

Logging Permit: The Main Document of the Industry

The logging permit is a special authorization that grants the right to harvest timber. In 2026, this document is primarily issued in electronic form through the 'EcoSystem' platform. It is important to know that the logging permit is obtained by permanent forest users (forestry enterprises) for conducting official logging.

Citizens have two options for working with this document:

1. Purchase of ready-made firewood. In this case, you buy the timber that the forestry has already harvested based on its logging permit. The freight bill will serve as your document for transportation.

2. Self-harvesting. In certain cases, the forestry may issue an order or permit that allows you to independently gather logging residues in a certain area of the forest after the main logging. Without such a document, any attempt to cut wood in the forest is considered illegal.

Clear Distinction: What Can and Cannot Be Harvested in the Forest

Ukrainian law distinguishes between common resources and state property, which determines the rights of individuals entering the forest for harvesting.

What is Allowed (for General Use)

Without any permits or permissions, only 'forest bedding' can be removed, the collection of which does not require the use of an axe or saw:

• small brushwood and twigs that have fallen naturally;

• fallen needles, dry leaves, and cones;

• bark that has peeled off the trunks.

What is Prohibited

The status of 'fallen by itself' does not grant the right to appropriate the resource. Fallen trunks (windfall) and dead trees (dry standing) belong to the state. Using a chainsaw or axe to dismantle them without a logging permit results in fines, as forestry enterprises have to harvest and sell this resource through official permissions.

Special Exceptions and Legal Ways to Obtain Firewood in 2026

In 2026, special conditions remain for residents of frontline areas. The government allows for the free harvesting of logging residues for the population of these zones only after coordinating with military administrations and forestry enterprises.

For all other citizens, the best option is to place an official order for fuel. In addition to contacting the forestry, there is a state service 'WoodIs', where one can choose the type of wood, volume, and order delivery right to their home. This procedure guarantees legality and ensures quality fuel that meets state standards.

Thus, preparing for winter 2026 will require Ukrainians to be attentive to the documents and rules of firewood harvesting. Knowledge of the legislation will help avoid misunderstandings and obtain the necessary resources for heating their homes. The legality of harvesting also ensures that the fuel will be of appropriate quality, which is an important factor in the cold season.