In Ukraine, there are periodic reports about possible fines for collecting wild mushrooms and berries. With the start of the season, such news gains popularity, causing concern among the population. Ukrainians should know in which cases liability may arise and when the collection of forest gifts is entirely legal.
This is reported by Finway
What Cases Involve Fines for Collecting Mushrooms and Berries
According to current legislation, specifically the Cabinet of Ministers of Ukraine Resolution No. 287, liability arises in cases of damage to protected natural areas. The latest changes to the resolution only concerned increasing the amounts of fines, not introducing new prohibitions. Therefore, the information about “new fines for mushrooms and berries” circulating on the internet is a manipulation.
“As explained by ecologists from Lviv Polytechnic, collecting mushrooms, berries, and plants for personal use is allowed and is not punishable by law. The document does not restrict enthusiasts of forest gifts in any way.”
Where and for What You Can Be Fined
Fines apply only to those engaged in the industrial harvesting of mushrooms, berries, or plants without permission in protected natural areas. Specifically:
- In regular forests, collecting mushrooms and berries for personal consumption is not restricted and is not punishable.
- In national parks, botanical gardens, and biosphere reserves, it is allowed to pick fruits for personal use, but not for sale. A special permit—a forest ticket—is required for commercial activities.
- In strictly protected areas, collecting any plants and mushrooms is completely prohibited, as is the presence of unauthorized persons.
For Ukrainians who collect wild edibles for home use, fines are not imposed as long as they do not enter specially protected areas. Such areas are usually fenced and marked with appropriate signs.