Regulations regarding mushroom picking in Poland – prohibitions, penalties and species protection

In Poland, mushroom picking is almost a national tradition, but not everywhere we can freely collect forest treasures. The ban on mushroom picking applies primarily in national parks, most nature reserves and military areas.

The State Forests would like to remind you that the permanent entry ban also covers young forest crops (up to 4 meters high), experimental areas, seed stands, animal refuges, springs of rivers and streams, and areas at risk of erosion.

It is also worth paying attention to yellow boards informing about temporary bans on entering the forest, e.g. due to farm work or fire hazard. Entering the prohibited area may result in a fine of PLN 500.

Protected mushrooms - not every edible specimen can be collected

Not every mushroom that looks appetizing can be legally added to your basket. In Poland, over 100 species of mushrooms are under legal protection (strict or partial). This is regulated by the relevant regulation of the Minister of the Environment. They also include edible species, such as Trentino buttermilk, St. Nicholas oyster mushroom and edible morel. Picking protected mushrooms can result in a severe penalty - up to PLN 5,000 fine and, in extreme cases, even arrest.

The regulations prohibit not only harvesting, but also destroying, damaging or raking the forest floor in search of mushrooms.

It is worth remembering that accidentally stepping on a protected specimen does not always mean a fine, but intentional destruction does.

Fines not only for mushrooms

Mushroom pickers must remember that the list of offenses also includes other offenses. For littering the forest, illegally entering a car or picking mushrooms in prohibited places, you can get a fine of PLN 500. In turn, picking mushrooms or forest fruits in an unauthorized manner may result in a fine of up to PLN 250 or a reprimand.

The regulations do not specify a limit on the number of kilograms of mushrooms that can be collected for one's own needs in state forests. Harvesting on an industrial scale, however, requires a special agreement with the forest district.