If you have a hankering to cut down your own Christmas tree — like they always seem to do in those romantic holiday comedies, Sea to Sky tree cutting permits are available online.
Permits are free, but for personal use only and must be carried at all times, while tree hunting and cutting.
It is illegal to sell a tree cut under a Christmas tree permit or to cut a tree in an unauthorized area.
When cutting a Christmas tree, the province provides the following tips:
*Leave home prepared. Bring ropes, gloves, tools, tire chains, a first-aid kit, a mobile phone and warm clothing.
*When driving, be prepared for logging trucks.
*Make sure you have found the tree you will use before cutting. Some permits specify only one tree can be cut.
*Do not leave a pointed stump as this may cause injury to wildlife, pets or other people.
*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 before you go home.
Links to online Christmas tree permits can be found here.
If you don't want to get a permit online, you can also contact the Squamish natural resource district office or FrontCounter BC office. The Sea to Sky District office is at: 101 – 42000 Loggers Lane, 604-898-2100 or by email: FLNRO.SeaToSkyDistrict@gov.bc.ca.
A list of tree farms and “U-cuts” around the province can be found on the BC Christmas Tree Council’s website.
