The competition commenced on 14 July 2017 when Zhemchuzhyna Odesa hosted MFC Mykolaiv.
[2][3] This decision was dependent on the possible withdrawal of FC Stal Kamianske from the Premier League.
In addition in the case of the withdrawal of Stal, Desna had an opportunity to be accepted to the Ukrainian Premier League with another ongoing inter-season case (see Desna vs Veres promotion) leaving the First League with 16 participants.
On 26 June 2017, FC Stal Kamianske chose to stay in the Premier League, while at same time FC Balkany Zorya was confirmed as the 18th participant of the First League season.
The following stadiums are considered home grounds for the teams in the competition.