Cyprus Department of Forests issues Easter safety and environmental regulations

The Cyprus Department of Forests has issued an official notice regarding environmental protection and public safety during the Easter period. The department reports an increase in illegal tree felling for traditional 'lampratzies' (Easter bonfires) and clarifies that cutting any forest or ornamental tree requires written permission. No permits will be granted for trees intended for use in bonfires. Local authorities and the public are urged to report illegal felling to forestry offices or the police. Due to the high fire risk during the upcoming fire season, the use of fireworks and firecrackers without a license is strictly prohibited and constitutes a criminal offense. Lighting fires in the countryside is generally banned, with the exception of cooking in designated areas within organized picnic or camping sites. Starting a fire inside state forests or within a two-kilometer radius is a serious crime. Offenders face penalties of up to five years in prison, a fine of up to 25,000 euros, or both.