Heading Out to Cut Down Your Christmas Tree? Find Out Where and How!
Heading out to find the perfect Christmas tree is a cherished tradition for many Alberta families. You can cut your own Christmas tree on provincial Crown land within Alberta's Green Area with a permit from Alberta Agriculture and Forestry. It’s important to note that there are no locations for cutting with a TM66 permit within the White Area of the province.
General conditions
- Keep your permit with you at all times while cutting and transporting trees. Fill in the back of the permit after obtaining your Christmas tree(s).
- You may cut up to 3 Christmas trees on a single permit.
- Drive vehicles on designated trails only and on highlighted roads, per maps. You can walk as far as you would like to cut as long as you do not cross into restricted areas (see Restrictions, below).
- Road conditions are variable. A 4x4 vehicle is recommended.
- As of December 1, some roads are gated.
Restrictions
Do not remove trees from:
- facilities such as ranger stations, viewpoints and turnouts
- Jumping Pound Demonstration Forest Area
- reclaimed sites
- areas around intentionally placed rocks
- large grassy areas (reclaimed sand and gravel sites)
- previously harvested sites that have been reforested
- very steep slopes where the trees are helping to keep the soil in place
- recreation areas, campgrounds, provincial parks, natural areas, or private land
Useful reminders
- Always let someone know where you are going and the time you are expecting to return home.
- Be prepared for cold weather and snow conditions.
- Don't forget your saw or hatchet.
- Take extra winter clothing and emergency supplies with you, including blankets, food and water, and candles.
- Cell phone service may be limited or unavailable in some areas.
- Respect the land, respect other users and pack out all trash.
Find more information here. Enjoy your Christmas tree outing!