Access to forests in Ukraine has become significantly restricted due to wartime security risks, including mine contamination, proximity to combat zones, and fire hazards. While forest tourism remains popular, most regions currently operate under strict limitations or full bans on civilian access.
According to environmental and forestry organizations, only a few western regions—such as Chernivtsi, Ternopil, Zakarpattia, and parts of Ivano-Frankivsk—allow relatively open access to forests. Even there, visitors face seasonal fire restrictions and limitations near border areas or sensitive routes.
Several regions permit only partial access under strict conditions. For example, in Zhytomyr and Volyn regions, entry is restricted near the Belarus border and in areas affected by occupation or mine contamination. In Rivne Oblast, despite some designated recreational sites, large forest areas remain closed due to safety concerns, including unexploded ordnance. Similar partial restrictions apply in Khmelnytskyi and other border-adjacent areas, where movement, vehicle access, and even foraging are regulated.
At the same time, a full ban on forest visits for civilians is currently in effect in a wide range of regions, including Vinnytsia, Kyiv, Dnipropetrovsk, Donetsk, Zaporizhzhia, Odesa, Poltava, Sumy, Kharkiv, Kherson, Chernihiv, and Cherkasy oblasts. Exceptions apply only to military personnel, law enforcement, and authorized forestry services.
Authorities emphasize that even in post-occupied or recently de-occupied territories, forests may remain dangerous due to landmines and unexploded ordnance. Additionally, during periods of high fire risk, temporary restrictions may be imposed nationwide, including bans on entering forests altogether.
Environmental experts warn that human negligence remains one of the leading causes of forest fires, with violations potentially resulting in significant fines or criminal liability.
Location
Ternopil
