Ukrainians in Germany may unexpectedly receive a fine for lighting a fire. To avoid unpleasant situations, you should know certain rules. Here's what gardening activities can result in a fine of up to 50 thousand euros

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Refugees from Ukraine who have taken refuge in Germany should be aware of the local rules. In particular, most Ukrainians in Germany are surprised at how easy it is to get a fine in the country.  Earlier, we talked about parking rules in Germany and why a car can be towed. 

However, parking is not the only thing that can result in a hefty fine in the country.

With the arrival of warmer weather, German gardeners head to their garden plots to plant flowers, plants, tree seedlings, and mow lawns. They may also involve Ukrainians in this activity, or you may want to help your German friends. In such a case, it is worth remembering that there are gardening activities in Germany that you should refrain from doing during a certain period of time, otherwise you may receive a large fine. We will tell you what gardening activities are severely punished in Germany.

• Making a fire in the garden

The rules for starting a fire in the garden, even on your own property, must be authorized by local authorities. 

Please note! Even an open barbecue in the garden cannot be lit without permission. Otherwise, you may be fined for an unauthorized fire.

It is also forbidden to burn waste after gardening. In most cases, a permit is required to burn garbage. It is better to recycle tree trimmings.

• Cutting down trees 

In Germany, you cannot cut down trees in your garden from March 1 to September 30. Especially if they are home to birds, rodents, or bats.

In addition, certain types of trees are especially protected in Germany, such as walnut or loblolly pine.

Fines are up to €50,000 depending on the federal state.

If you need to cut down a tree in your garden, you should contact the environmental authority. The size of the tree can play an important role.

• Mowing the lawn on a day off

You can also be fined for making noise in the garden on a day off - a Sunday or a holiday. 

Chainsaws, leaf blowers, brush cutters and other noisy equipment should not be used on such days. 

• Building a shed 

To build a shed near your home, you often need to obtain a permit in accordance with building regulations. 

Such a violation of the rules can also result in a fine of up to 50 thousand euros.

• Destroying insect nests

Some species of insects in Germany are endangered and therefore under nature protection. In particular, the common wasp and the German wasp. 

Even if they have built a nest in the garden or on the house, it must not be eliminated. This can result in a hefty fine of up to €20,000. 

Other insects, such as bees, bumblebees, hornets, or butterflies, are also protected. 

A fine of up to €50,000 can be imposed for their destruction. In Brandenburg, the fine can be as high as €65,000.

Jobs in Germany: the most popular vacancies for expats - find here.

We remind you! In order to avoid troubles in the EU countries, it is worth knowing the rules of traveling by public transport. You can read about the main rules and prohibitions that Ukrainians should keep in mind when using public transport in the Czech Republic, Poland, Germany, and Switzerland here.

Our recommendation for a safe and comfortable trip: 

Visit Ukraine Insurance - insurance for a safe stay abroad without unnecessary expenses;

Green Card - compulsory car insurance for traveling abroad;

Visit Ukraine Tickets - book tickets for buses, trains, and airplanes to/from Ukraine and between cities around the world;

Private Lawyer service - professional legal support on visa and migration issues;

Visit Ukraine Merch - buy patriotic clothing and accessories with worldwide delivery.