Planning to take “free” firewood near the lake? In 2026, it could lead to a fine, which branches are prohibited

Dry trees near water bodies look like a wonderful resource: a tree that no one needs anymore is just waiting to be taken away for the winter.

However, in 2026, such “savings” can lead to unpredictable consequences, including a conversation with an inspector and receiving a fine. Ukrainian legislation in this area is strict and unambiguous.

Firewood remains one of the most popular types of fuel, especially in private homes. It is affordable, easy to use, and not subject to tariff changes. Every year, people strive to prepare their own firewood, including from dead and fallen trees. However, problems arise when these trees are located near water bodies.

According to the Water Code of Ukraine, coastal protective strips are very carefully protected. This is not “no man’s land” and not a territory for free use. Even if the tree is dry, falls on its own, and “rotting anyway”, it is forbidden to take it.

Around each reservoir, there is a boundary where any logging is prohibited. For small rivers and ponds, this zone is 25 meters from the shore; for medium-sized reservoirs, 50 meters; and for large rivers and lakes, 100 meters. Within these boundaries, no actions that could harm nature are allowed: neither felling trees, nor their harvesting, nor any interference with the ecosystem.

Lawyer Oleg Kozlyak emphasizes that unauthorized collection of deadwood or fallen trees without the necessary permits is a violation of the law. That is, even if you picked up a tree, it would still be considered illegal.

Interestingly, administrative liability is provided for unauthorized logging or collection of wood in coastal zones. In 2026, the fine for ordinary citizens will be from 510 to 765 hryvnias, and for officials, from 1,020 to 1,530 hryvnias. And this is without accounting for possible charges for environmental damage.

Free firewood near a reservoir may be the most expensive in your life. Legal harvesting is possible only in specially designated places outside water protection zones and only with the appropriate permit.

Let us remind you that the right choice of firewood can save energy: one mistake can lead to heat loss and wasted money. Earlier, we also reported that firewood is not suitable for heating, and a forester warned of the danger.