Archive photo: from the website russian.eurasianet.org
In Tajikistan, for collecting firewood, grazing livestock, and installing hives for bees in the forest, you must pay a certain amount and obtain a permit or a so-called "forest ticket" ("chiptaiangal"). We found out who issues it and how much it costs.
What is a "forest ticket" and where can I get it?
A "forest ticket" is a permit obtained for the use of forest resources. It is issued by the Forestry Agency under the Government of the Republic of Tajikistan and its local divisions. Holders of such a permit are allowed to use forest and natural resources on the Agency's balance sheet.
The ticket is issued for one season (from spring to the end of autumn) based on an agreement between the applicant and the Forestry Agency. Both legal entities and individuals can apply.
According to the Forestry Agency, an inventory of the natural resources of each forest area is first carried out, and in accordance with the approved standards, citizens are given permits to use these resources.
How much does a "forest ticket" cost to collect firewood?
It should be noted that there are two ways to collect firewood: from the "upper warehouse" and from the "lower warehouse".
Using an "upper warehouse" means that a person collects firewood on their own. In this case, only 40% of the cost of the "forest ticket" is paid. For one cubic meter of firewood or wood it is necessary to pay 156 somoni 92 diram.
The use of a "lower warehouse" means that forestry employees collect firewood and store it during the clearing of forest areas. You can buy ready-made firewood without additional effort. The price per cubic meter of such firewood is 392 somoni 29 dirams.
Is it possible to use wood from the forest for construction?
Yes, if the local division of the Forestry Agency has this type of wood in stock. Self-harvesting or cutting is not allowed. Only employees of the Forestry Agency have the right to collect trees in the forest that have been broken as a result of mudflows or winds, or affected by disease, and store them in a warehouse.
Such wood is called "business wood". If necessary, you can contact the Agency's divisions for this type of wood. The price ranges from 472 to 520 somoni per cubic meter.
Is it possible to graze cattle or mow grass in the forest?
Yes, also with the payment of a certain amount. The fee for mowing grass is calculated per hectare. It is necessary to pay 25 somoni for one hectare of land.
Grazing is also allowed. One shepherd is allowed to graze up to 220 head of cattle, and he pays 235 somoni per month. If there are 1000 heads in the herd, then 4 shepherds will be required, and the total amount for the month will be about 940 somoni.
How much does it cost to install bee hives in the forest?
To install the hives, you also need to purchase a "forest ticket", which is issued for one season and a specific location of the hives. A fee is charged for each bee family – from 5 to 10 somoni per season.
If the location of the hives is changed, the payment is also made anew.
What are the consequences for using forests without a "forest ticket"?
In the case of unauthorized, without permission, collecting firewood, grazing livestock, collecting medicinal herbs or beekeeping in the territories under the jurisdiction of the Forestry Agency, administrative penalties and fines are provided.
According to statistics from the Forestry Agency, 710 administrative offenses were registered in Tajikistan's forests in the first six months of 2025. Of these, 450 were for cutting down trees, 120 for grazing livestock, and 35 for collecting medicinal herbs. The damage is estimated at 647 thousand somoni.
