Putin’s New Law Targets Invasive Plants With Heavy Fines by 2026
President Vladimir Putin has signed a new law to combat invasive plants, with a focus on hogweed and other hazardous species. The legislation, set to take effect on March 1, 2026, imposes fines for non-compliance, ranging from 20,000 to 700,000 rubles depending on the offender's status.
The new law aims to preserve soil fertility and prevent environmental damage by eradicating invasive species on all types of property. Landowners are now responsible for removing these plants, with failure to comply resulting in fines.
Individuals face fines between 20,000 and 50,000 rubles, while legal entities may be fined up to 700,000 rubles. Officials are subject to penalties of 50,000 to 100,000 rubles. The exact amounts will be determined by regional environmental or governmental agencies.
The law, initiated by Sergei Kolunov, gives regions the authority to set fine amounts independently and compile their own lists of dangerous plants.
Starting March 1, 2026, landowners in Russia must eradicate invasive species or face fines. The new legislation, signed by President Putin, targets hogweed and other hazardous plants, aiming to protect the environment and maintain soil fertility.
