Firewood Collection in Ukraine's Forests for 2026
Starting in 2026, new regulations will govern the collection of firewood in Ukrainian forests. To legally gather wood, citizens must obtain a special logging permit, known as a 'lisorubnyi kvytok,' issued by authorized forestry authorities. This permit system is a significant change aimed at improving oversight of a common practice. The permit specifies work timelines, the volume of wood allowed, site cleanup requirements, and payment procedures, establishing a controlled framework for firewood harvesting.
Requirements and Emergency Situations
Under the new norms, harvesting firewood without the proper permit is a violation of the law. To obtain a logging permit, an individual must submit an application, a work plan, and documentation for the specific forest plot where harvesting is planned. This is a mandatory condition for legal activity in this sector.
In emergency situations, citizens have a one-month grace period to obtain a permit after work has begun. Such emergencies include the urgent removal of hazardous trees near power lines and the treatment of consequences from natural disasters or forest fires.
"It is necessary to obtain a 'logging permit.' This is a document issued for the right to harvest timber, including firewood, according to established rules," noted forestry expert Mykola Kovalenko.
For individuals planning to purchase firewood directly from state forestry enterprises, possessing a delivery note or a goods transport document is required. These new rules are designed to enhance control over timber harvesting and ensure the lawful use of forest resources. The changes reflect broader European trends toward sustainable forest management.
The introduction of these new firewood collection rules in Ukraine is part of the state's efforts to protect forest resources and ensure their sustainable use. The logging permit system aims to reduce instances of illegal logging, which can negatively impact the ecosystem. These changes may also contribute to more effective forest resource management and support their recovery in the face of modern environmental challenges.