Utilization of Dry Grass — What Penalties Await Arsonists in 2025.

Ukrainians are once again warned that the independent burning of dry grass and fallen leaves is prohibited. This not only harms the environment and people's health but also violates the law.

Why Burning Dry Grass is Not Allowed

The Department of Environmental Protection and Climate Change Adaptation of the Kyiv City State Administration notes that there are frequent cases of burning plant residues in Ukraine. This causes serious harm:

• ecosystems are damaged;
• the fertile layer of soil is destroyed;
• beneficial insects and microorganisms die.

'Every year we face cases of burning dry grass and leaves. Some mistakenly believe that this contributes to soil fertility. In fact, burning leads to the destruction of soil cover, the extermination of soil-forming organisms, and useful insects, as well as a deterioration of the natural balance of ecosystems,'

Moreover, the smoke from the fires contains harmful substances — including carcinogens and carbon monoxide, which are dangerous for the respiratory system.

What Punishment Awaits Ukrainians in 2025

During the burning of dry grass and other waste, there is a high risk of uncontrolled fire spread, which is especially dangerous in the conditions of martial law. For unauthorized burning of plants, the following fines are provided:

• from 3,060 to 21,420 hryvnias;
• in protected areas — from 6,120 to 30,600 hryvnias.

If the actions result in damage to the plant world, a fine of 153,000 hryvnias may be imposed, or even punishment in the form of imprisonment for up to 5 years.

Who May End Up Behind Bars Due to Grass Burning

Additionally, according to Article 113 , attempts at arson can be considered acts of sabotage. For this, during wartime, a punishment is provided — from 15 years of imprisonment to life imprisonment with confiscation of property.

Earlier we reported that during the summer-autumn period in Ukraine, berries, mushrooms, and nuts are actively harvested. However, it is important to remember that this is not allowed everywhere — fines are imposed for gathering in prohibited forest areas.

We also talked about the fact that fishing remains a popular pastime for many, but rule violations can be costly. Sanctions are possible even before the start of fishing.