The 2008–09 season was the 18th season of competitive association football in Ukraine since dissolution of the Soviet Union.

Note: For all scratched clubs, see section Clubs removed for more details

Due to FC Ihroservice Simferopol failing to pay their license dues for the 2009–10 Ukrainian First League season the PFL allowed an extra team to be promoted.

The PFL determined that a playoff game between the 2nd placed teams Druha Liha – Arsenal Bila Tserkva and FC Poltava.

Note: For all scratched clubs, see section Clubs removed for more details 2009 Vyshcha Liha (women)