New fines for illegal logging of Christmas trees in Ukraine
In 2025, new fines for illegal logging, transportation, and sale of live Christmas trees will come into effect in Ukraine. According to the new rules, citizens who illegally chop down Christmas trees may face a fine ranging from 510 to 1020 hryvnias, while officials will be subject to harsher penalties — from 2550 to 5100 hryvnias.
For violations of logging rules outside populated areas, the fines also vary. Citizens may be fined from 170 to 510 hryvnias, while officials and entrepreneurs can face fines from 510 to 850 hryvnias. Moreover, fines for violating the rules of selling or purchasing plants will range from 510 to 1700 hryvnias, and in specially protected natural areas — from 1700 to 3655 hryvnias.
Criminal liability for illegal logging
In addition to administrative liability, according to Article 246 of the Criminal Code of Ukraine, illegal logging of Christmas trees can lead to imprisonment for up to 3 years or deprivation of liberty for a term of 3 to 7 years. These innovations are aimed at preserving natural resources and protecting the environment.
The introduction of new fines indicates the growing attention of Ukrainian legislation to nature conservation and the fight against illegal practices that harm the ecology.
It is expected that these measures will help reduce cases of illegal logging of Christmas trees, especially in the pre-New Year period when the demand for live Christmas trees traditionally increases.