Forestry Act

The Forest Act establishes the legal framework for protection, management, use, and sustainable governance of forest territories in Bulgaria. Its purpose is to maintain and increase forest area, improve forest health, guarantee the ecological, social and economic functions of forests, and support timber and non‑timber production through nature‑based management. The law defines what constitutes a forest, categorises forest land (e.g., protective, special, and commercial forests), and sets rules for inventory, planning, and forestry activities to safeguard ecosystem services such as soil protection, biodiversity, water regulation, recreation, and climate regulation. It also aims to balance the interests of society and forest owners while ensuring compliance with international and European conservation commitments. The law includes provisions on forest protection against pests, disease, fire and other risks, sustainable harvesting, and public participation in forestry planning.