NSW's State forests provide many benefits and values to the community. Our permit and authorisation system allows us to balance these multiple uses.
Please see details below about activities that require a permit and how to apply.
Please check the current closure list here before planning to visit any State forest. Fossicking and collecting firewood are not permitted in closed forests even with a permit.
Find out where you can collect firewood for domestic use and arrange an authorisation.
Download the factsheet to read more about the rules and guidelines for Collecting firewood from State Forests [PDF]. Contact your closest office to enquire about commercial firewood collection.
Visit the Department of Primary Industries website for information on hunting licences and permits.
Permits are available for grazing cattle in some State forests. Fees apply.
Application forms should be emailed to landadministration@fcnsw.com.au
Please allow a minimum of four weeks for your application to be processed.
Permits are available for apiary (beekeeping) sites in some State forests. Please contact the Department of Primary Industries (DPI) for all apiary permit applications or queries about existing apiary permits.
Forest Permits are used as an Access Arrangement in terms of the Mining Act, which is required to exercise any of the rights conferred by an exploration licence.
Forest Permits are also required for activities/infrastructure related to mining operations located outside a Mining Lease and within State forest.
To arrange a Forest Permit or discuss activities related to mineral exploration or mining activity/infrastructure, contact your local Forestry Corporation Land Administration contact.
The process for mineral exploration within a State forest is outlined here.
To access State forests for commercial (non-forestry) purposes, please email landadministration@fcnsw.com.au providing a brief of proposed works, including location(s).
This includes survey/research work commissioned by commercial bodies, such as ongoing ecological monitoring surveys associated with a mining operation.
We will respond directly regarding your application.
Please note that fees may apply.
Please allow a minimum of four weeks for your application to be processed.
Forestry Corporation facilitates research on State forests where appropriate.
To discuss proposed research in native State forests, contact our Senior Ecologist at the Wauchope office. To discuss proposed research in softwood plantations, contact the Bathurst or Tumut office.
To apply for a research permit, download and complete the following forms:
A copy of your public liability insurance will also be required. Additional information may be requested by the relevant office and additional conditions may be placed on your permit.
Email completed application forms to research@fcnsw.com.au
Please allow a minimum of four weeks for your application to be processed.
State forest roads may not always be available to use.
Neighbours who regularly use State forest roads can apply for a practical access authority and commercial users require a commercial access agreement.
State forest neighbours may be granted permission to clear along boundary fencelines, subject to assessments and conditions.
You need a permit for commercial photography and filming in State forests. Please note that non-commercial filming may also require a permit in some circumstances.
Fees apply. Please contact the closest Forestry Corporation office to discuss your proposal and complete the Forests permit - application form [Word].
Please contact your closest Forestry Corporation office to discuss your proposed activity or event. Some forests are not available for events.
A minimum of four weeks is required for a permit application to be assessed (large events may require 90 days).
Forest permits attract fees based on the nature, intensity and number of attendees. Some activities may be exempt from fees. Your local contact will discuss fees and other requirements with you.
Note: a copy of your public liability insurance will also be required. We may request additional information and place conditions on your permit, and will require the permit holder to sign a deed of indemnity.