If you want to head into the woods and chop down your own Christmas tree, you’ll need a special permit to do so.
You can only cut down Christmas trees on vacant crown land or on private property if you have the landowner’s permission.
The permits needed for tree cutting are now available through the local natural resource district office and Front Counter B.C. office or online. (You can download and print off the free use permit here, but make sure you take it with you when you head out to find the perfect tree.)
If you run into a natural resource officer, conservation officer or peace officer, you’ll need to show them the permit if they request it from you.
Remember that harvesting Christmas trees from Crown land without the permits is unlawful and you must make sure you are not cutting the tree on plantations, research and recreation areas, or on cut blocks that are being logged, or on private property without the landowner’s permission.
You can cut up to three trees in the area around Prince George and the Robson Valley for your own personal use, but you can’t cut down trees that show obvious signs of use by wildlife and you have to cut the stumps as low as possible (under 30 cm in height).
The permits are valid until Jan. 31, 2019.
Here are some more things to keep in mind when cutting down your own Christmas tree:
- Leave home prepared, bring ropes, gloves, tools, tire chains, a first aid kit, phone and warm clothing
- Drive carefully, be prepared for logging trucks
- Make sure you have found the tree you will use before cutting to avoid wasting forest resources, some permits specify only one tree can be cut
- Do not leave a pointed stump as this may cause injury to livestock, wildlife, pets or humans
- Choose a tree that can be cut near the base and is easy to transport; wasted tree remains left in the forest form a summer fire hazard
- Clean up and remove all debris associated with your activity
For more information about cutting down your own tree, contact the Prince George Natural Resource District offices at 2000 South Ospika Blvd. or email [email protected].
