Announcement by the Department of Forests ahead of the Easter holidays
The Department of Forests of the Ministry of Agriculture, Rural Development and Environment, along with its wishes for a Happy Easter, wishes to remind the public that in recent years there has been an increase in the illegal felling of trees intended for burning in traditional “Lampradjia” bonfires—actions which constitute a criminal offence.
The Department of Forests emphasises that the felling of forest trees or even ornamental trees, wherever they may be located, requires written authorisation from the Department. It further clarifies that no permits will be granted for tree felling for the purpose of burning them in the “Lampradjia.” According to Forest Law, illegal tree felling is punishable by a fine of up to €5,000, imprisonment of up to one year, or both.
Local Authorities, organised groups, and environmentally aware individuals are urged to report any tree-felling incidents immediately to local forest offices or the Police, so they may be investigated and offenders prosecuted.
Additionally, due to higher-than-usual temperatures for the season and prolonged drought, the risk of fire ignition and spread is extremely high. Extra caution is required by all, especially owners of holiday homes near forested areas and farmers, both during their outdoor activities and when staying at countryside residences. The use of fire, tools, or agricultural machinery that produce sparks or flames should be strictly avoided. Throwing lit cigarettes or matches while moving through rural or forested areas is strictly prohibited.
Unfortunately, there has been an increasing trend in recent years of using fireworks and other dangerous items (such as firecrackers) containing explosive material to mark the Resurrection of Christ. It is stressed that the purchase and use of such hazardous materials require special permits from the Mines Service and the Police. The illegal purchase, possession, or use of these materials is prohibited, poses serious fire hazards, and will be subject to criminal prosecution.
It is also highlighted that lighting fires outdoors is prohibited—except for food preparation only in specially designated and organised picnic and camping areas. Lighting a fire or causing a fire within state forests or within a 2 km radius of forest boundaries is a criminal offence. Under the Forests Law of 2012, it is punishable by up to 12 years’ imprisonment, a fine of up to €100,000, or both.
The public is also encouraged, during their visits to forests and the countryside, not to cut or uproot wildflowers or shrubs, as many of these are endemic or endangered species and are strictly protected.
Finally, anyone who notices smoke or fire within or near a forest area is asked to immediately inform the nearest Forest Station or call 1407 (Department of Forests) or 112.
Also read: Police urge public to avoid firecrackers amid Easter safety blitz
