Department of Forests issued a stern warning that cutting trees anywhere without written permission constitutes an offence, as the country prepares for Easter celebrations and traditional bonfires.
According to forestry legislation, illegal tree cutting is punishable by fines of up to €5,000 and/or imprisonment for up to one year, the department said in a statement.
The department called on local authorities, organisations and concerned citizens to “immediately report” any incidents of tree cutting to local forestry offices or police so perpetrators can face criminal prosecution.
Officials highlighted that the risk of fires starting and spreading is “very high” due to unseasonably high temperatures and prolonged drought conditions.
“Special caution is required from owners of holiday homes near forested areas, as well as from farmers during their various activities both at holiday homes and in rural areas generally,” the statement said.
The use of fire and tools or agricultural machinery that produce sparks or flames should be completely avoided, and throwing lit cigarettes or matches while travelling in rural and forested areas is prohibited.
The department noted a growing trend in recent years of using fireworks or other dangerous items containing explosive material to celebrate Easter.
It emphasised that “permits for purchase, possession and use of such dangerous materials are required” from the Mines Service and Police.
Lighting fires anywhere in rural areas is prohibited except for food preparation in specially designated areas within organised picnic and camping sites.
Starting fires or causing wildfires within state forests or within 2 kilometres of their edges constitutes an offence punishable by imprisonment of up to 12 years and/or fines of up to €100,000 under the 2012 Forest Law.
The Department of Forests urged the public to avoid cutting or uprooting wildflowers and shrubs during visits to forests and rural areas, as many species are endemic or endangered and thus strictly protected.
Anyone who notices smoke or fire in or near forests should immediately inform the nearest Forest Station or call 1407 (Department of Forests) or 112, the statement concluded.
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