Nothing says Christmas like the smell of a fresh pine tree.
The province has greenlighted permits to cut your own tree this season.
The Ministry of Forests, Lands, Natural Resource Operations and Rural Development are reminding you to be prepared with ropes, gloves, tools, a first aid kit, and a cell phone.
They also say to choose the perfect tree, as many permits only allow for one tree to be cut down, and to clean up after cutting down the tree, ensuring the stump left behind is not pointed or jagged which could cause injuries to livestock, wildlife, pets or people.
Permits are for personal use only, and it is illegal to sell the tree.
Christmas Tree Cutting Permits can be acquired by contacting the Natural Resource Office (250-356-7903), or the FrontCounter BC office (250-751-7220). You can also apply for a permit online.
Trees can also not be cut down in un-authorized areas, a list of tree farms and "U-Cuts" can be found here.
The public is asked to consult a natural resource district officer with any questions.