Free use permits to cut a Christmas tree on Crown land are available from forest district and FrontCounterBC offices in most areas of the province.

Local district offices can identify areas of Crown where one tree may be legally cut for personal use. Permits are not available for the Chilliwack and South Island forest districts due to population density and tree demand.

The ministry’s Christmas tree website has links to offices that offer tree permits for designated areas, with online permits available in some regions. The website has links and phone numbers for FrontCounterBC and forest district offices.

There is also a link to the B.C. Christmas Tree Council, which has a list of private tree farms around B.C.

Once you have a Crown land permit, the ministry suggests leaving home prepared with ropes, gloves and tools. Choose a tree that can be cut near the base and is easily transported out, to minimize waste and debris that can be a fire hazard next summer.