The article considers the main theoretical and methodological foundations of the formation of environmental policy of the state in terms of decentralization reform and the acquisition of appropriate powers by local governments. The components of environmental policy in a democratic society are identified, namely: proper and effective system of public administration in the field of protection, inexhaustible use and reproduction of natural resources; proper, state and public supervision over the observance of the current environmental legislation and international environmental obligations of the country; appropriate environmental information policy; appropriate level of ecological expertise of ecologically dangerous projects; an appropriate system of state decision-making on environmental issues, which would provide for mandatory public involvement; proper system of responsibility of the authorities, specific officials and citizens for violation of the principles of balanced development, norms and provisions of environmental legislation; proper educational and educational activities. The analysis of the legislative acts regulating the ecological policy in general and in separate directions of realization, in particular is carried out and in the field of nature management. It is noted that Ukraine as an integral participant in the development of the world economy is gradually directs its own efforts to implement resource-saving measures. The author concludes that it is necessary to improve the current environmental legislation of Ukraine through reform system of regulations to create effective tools for implementing the concept of sustainable development, which is possible only by assistance and in the context of integration of environmental policy into the socio-economic life of society and the state.