In which cases Ukrainians will have to pay a 5000 hryvnia fine for swimming in water bodies
Ukraine does not have a separate article in the Code of Administrative Offenses that directly establishes a fine specifically for swimming in prohibited or unarranged places. At the same time, liability may arise under a number of related provisions depending on the circumstances. As of 2026, the following main articles apply.
Main provisions and fine amounts
Article 188-16 of the Code of Administrative Offenses (failure to comply with lawful demands of officials of the State Emergency Service or civil protection authorities)
Applies in cases where a swimming ban is in effect — for example, a red flag is raised, a "Swimming prohibited" sign is posted, or there is an official order from rescuers or the police.
- first offense: 1,700 – 3,400 UAH
- repeat within a year: 3,400 – 5,100 UAH
Article 185 of the Code of Administrative Offenses (willful disobedience to a lawful order or demand of a police officer)
Applies if a person does not comply with the requirement to stop swimming.
- fine: 136 – 225 UAH
- or community service for 40–60 hours
- or corrective labor
- or administrative arrest up to 15 days (in severe cases)
Article 152 of the Code of Administrative Offenses (violation of rules for the improvement of settlements)
May apply for swimming in places not designated for this by local rules, such as quarries or unarranged water bodies.
- for citizens: 340 – 1,360 UAH
- for officials or entrepreneurs: 850 – 1,700 UAH
When liability arises
There is no direct general ban on swimming in all unarranged water bodies in the legislation. Fines are applied in the following cases:
- there is an official ban (signs, flags, announcements from local authorities);
- a person does not comply with the requirements of rescuers or police;
- the place is designated as prohibited by community improvement rules.
Most often, protocols are drawn up at official beaches where warning signs are posted or a rescue service operates. In the case of quarries, ponds, or rivers without equipped beaches, the State Emergency Service usually limits itself to warnings, but under certain conditions, administrative materials may also be drawn up.
Recommendations
- swim only at officially equipped beaches with a rescue service;
- pay attention to warning signs and flag colors;
- a red flag or "Swimming prohibited" sign indicates increased danger;
- if a protocol is drawn up, it can be appealed in court if there are procedural violations.
Subscribe to our Telegram channel t.me/sudua and to Google News SUD.UA, as well as to our VIBER and WhatsApp pages, on Facebook and Instagram to stay informed about the most important events.
