Firewood.Photo: depositphotos.
A new draft law is coming into force in Ukraine that provides for stricter liability for citizens who store or transport firewood without proper documents. On 10 October 2024, the Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine adopted the Law of Ukraine “On Amendments to the Code of Ukraine on Administrative Offences and the Criminal Code of Ukraine”, known as Bill 9665. It is currently awaiting the signature of the President of Ukraine, TimeUkraineIsrael reports with reference to Sud.ua.
Main provisions of the law
Draft Law 9665 adds a new Article 65-2 to the Code of Ukraine on Administrative Offences, which introduces administrative liability for illegal storage, transportation and sale of wood, shrubs or other plants without documents confirming their legality. Violations may result in fines ranging from UAH 510 to UAH 15,300 for individuals and from UAH 3,400 to UAH 15,300 for officials.
Criminal sanctions
In addition to administrative fines, the law introduces a new Article 246-1 to the Criminal Code, which criminalises the transportation, storage or sale of timber without proper documents in a significant amount. Such offences are punishable by fines ranging from UAH 34,000 to UAH 51,000 or imprisonment for up to three years. In the case of repeated offences committed by a group of persons or in a large volume, the penalty may reach UAH 170,000 to UAH 425,000, as well as imprisonment for a term of five to seven years.
What is considered significant and large?
In this law, a “significant amount” is defined as the value of timber exceeding 20 tax-free minimum incomes, while a “large amount” is defined as the value exceeding 60 tax-free minimum incomes.
Concluding remarks
The adoption of this law is aimed at strengthening control over the legality of wood storage and improving the protection of flora in Ukraine. The law comes into force upon its publication, which underlines the importance for citizens to be aware of the new requirements and ensure that they have the necessary documents for firewood to avoid serious legal consequences.
With this approach, the government aims not only to reduce illegal deforestation, but also to encourage Ukrainians to comply with environmental rules and regulations.
