On the eve of the New Year holidays, Ukrainians traditionally decorate their homes with Christmas trees. Some citizens choose artificial trees, but many people prefer live Christmas trees. At the same time, significant fines are provided for illegal felling of coniferous trees, the state enterprise "Forests of Ukraine" reminds.
The fine depends on the location of the felling and the diameter of the tree. For an illegally felled Christmas tree with a diameter of up to 10 centimeters, the fine is 893 hryvnias, and in a protected area - 7.6 thousand hryvnias. If the diameter of the tree is from 10.1 to 14 centimeters, the amount increases to 1.5 thousand hryvnias, and in a protected area - up to 13.3 thousand hryvnias.
For cutting down a Christmas tree with a diameter of 14.1 to 18 centimeters, you will have to pay more than 4 thousand hryvnias, and within the reserve - 34.7 thousand hryvnias.
In addition, additional nuances should be taken into account. In December and January, the amount of fines increases threefold. If significant damage is caused, the violator may face criminal liability. Significant damage is considered to be damage in the amount of more than 30.2 thousand hryvnias.
To avoid problems with the law, experts advise buying only legal Christmas trees. Such trees have special markings - barcode tags or self-adhesive labels. They confirm that the tree was cut down legally and in compliance with the requirements.
"Forests of Ukraine" emphasizes that labeling of Christmas trees is mandatory, and the authenticity of the tag can be checked through a special online service.
