Skip to content

How to get a permit to cut your Christmas tree

What you need to know about getting a tree from Crown land in the Quesnel area
14582734_web1_farmtour5mn
Sequim Gazette photo/Matthew Nash

As the month shifts from November into December, many will be beginning to consider where to get the centerpiece to their festive living room display: the Christmas tree.

The Ministry of Forests, Lands, Natural Resource Operations and Rural Development this week released information on how locals can obtain tree-cutting permits in order to hunt down that perfect tree in the great outdoors.

Quesnel locals who would like to cut their own Christmas tree can obtain a permit online at www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/industry/natural-resource-use/natural-resource-permits/christmas-tree-permits, or by contacting the local natural resource district office at 250-992-4400.

Permits are free, but must be carried when cutting down a Christmas tree from vacant Crown land, and produced if requested by a Natural Resource Officer, Conservation Officer or Peace Officer.

Up to two Christmas trees per permit can be cut in the Quesnel Natural Resource District, and must be for personal use only.

The Ministry of Forests offers the following tips when seeking out your Christmas tree on Crown land this year:

Leave home prepared. Bring ropes, gloves, tools, tire chains, a first aid kit, a mobile phone and warm clothing.

Drive carefully. Be prepared for logging trucks.

Make sure to find the right tree before cutting. 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 can form a summer fire hazard.

Clean up and remove all debris associated with the activity.