During these long cold winter nights, people light their fireplaces to stay warm. But do you know where your firewood came from? Was it legally harvested?

Cutting down trees from Crown land without the appropriate permit and selling them as firewood is a serious problem throughout the province. These actions are illegal, and can result in a violation ticket of $173 or more if significant environmental damage is done. They can create safety hazards for professional foresters and recreationalists, and can negatively impact an area's ecosystem.

The public can do its part by purchasing firewood from legitimate producers. Ask where the firewood is from and insist on getting a load slip. Firewood bought and sold without the proper documentation can be seized and removed by compliance and enforcement officers.

If you would like to cut firewood on vacant Crown land for personal use, you can obtain a permit by contacting the Sunshine Coast district office at 7077 Duncan St. in Powell River, or online at: http://www.for.gov.bc.ca/dsc/Permits/Firewood.htm

Media Contact:

Brennan Clarke
Government Communications and Public Engagement
Ministry of Forests, Lands and Natural Resource Operations
250 356-5261