The desire to have a Christmas tree at home should not lead to a violation of the law. Moreover, purchasing a legal Christmas tree that has grown in special forestry enterprises can be cheaper than a fine. Lawyers from the free legal aid system have explained what liability is provided for illegal felling of trees.
If it is illegal to cut down a Christmas tree in the forest
You can get a fine of 510-1020 UAH. And if it is not the first time in a year that a person has been fined for illegally cutting down any trees in the forest, then 1020-1530 UAH.
For officials, a larger fine is provided – 2,550-5,100 UAH.
If you cut down a Christmas tree within the boundaries of a settlement
For ordinary people, a fine of 170-510 UAH is provided, for an official or entrepreneur - 510-850 UAH.
When can criminal liability arise?
If you cause significant damage to the forest. Damage becomes significant if the losses exceed 340 UAH. The Cabinet of Ministers has approved a fee for calculating the amount of damage caused to forests or protected areas. The fee increases with the increase in tree diameter.
So, for significant damage to the forest, a fine of 17-25.5 thousand UAH or probationary supervision for a term of up to 3 years, or restriction or deprivation of liberty for the same term is provided.
If such actions are committed repeatedly or by a group of persons - restriction of liberty for a term of 3 to 5 years or imprisonment for the same term.
Cutting down trees in reserves or on the territories of the nature reserve fund is punishable by a fine of 2.55 to 34 thousand UAH or restriction of liberty for a term of 3 to 5 years, or imprisonment for the same term.
How to check if a Christmas tree is legal
On the eve of the holidays, local authorities announce places where the sale of Christmas trees is officially allowed.
All fir trees, pines, and spruces there must be chipped or contain labels with forestry and tree information.
How to apply to the free legal aid system