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Get your Christmas tree cutting permits

Permits can be acquired online or in person at your local forestry office
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Family members young and old love the annual tradition of going to find a tree. Make sure you have a permit to do so. Common License Photo

It’s a holiday tradition for many: Heading out to find the perfect Christmas tree, cutting it down and taking it home to decorate.

Well, those interested in cutting their own Christmas tree can now obtain a permit to do so online or by contacting their local district or FrontCounter BC office.

Local district offices can provide details about specific cutting requirements and approved harvest areas. Free-use permits are provided for personal use only.

Selling a tree cut under a Christmas tree permit, or cutting a tree in an unauthorized area, is illegal.

The public is reminded to check online maps provided by districts to ensure they are cutting within a designated area.

The ministry’s Christmas tree website provides links to online Christmas tree permits, as well as FrontCounter BC and district office contact information. The BC Christmas Tree Council’s website contains a list of tree farms and “U-Cuts” around the province.

When cutting a Christmas tree, keep the following tips in mind:

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 out in the back country

Make sure you have found the tree you will use before cutting. Some permits specify only one tree can be cut.

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 your activity.

Campbell River’s local district office to attain a permit is located at 370 South Dogwood, next to the Campbell River Christian School.