Romania fines landowners over ambrosia weed as allergy season worsens

Ambrosia, also known as ragweed, has spread rapidly across Romania, releasing billions of pollen grains that cause severe allergic reactions for many citizens. The pollen season begins in mid‑July, peaks in August and September, and can last until mid‑October.

Under Law No. 129/2020, property owners are legally required to eradicate ambrosia before it flowers. Failure to do so can result in fines of 1,000‑5,000 lei for individuals and 10,000‑20,000 lei for legal entities. Health officials warn that climate‑related changes are extending the pollination period, increasing the public health burden.