As the global Coronavirus (COVID-19) situation unfolds, Forestry Corporation of NSW is committed to ensuring the health & safety of our staff, partners, permit holders and forest visitors.
Given the evolving COVID-19 situation and associated public health directions, permits for organised events and activities will now require evidence of a COVID Safety Management Plan or equivalent in place.
Forest Permit applicants are encouraged to review the latest information, updates and resources on the COVID-19 pandemic.
Forestry Corporation expects permit holders, issued for activities involving members of the public, to adhere to the latest Australian and NSW Government advice regarding COVID-19. This includes complying with government orders for gatherings of people.
As the situation is rapidly evolving, we encourage those applying for or already holding an approved permit, to regularly check government websites for the latest COVID-19 advice and/or orders:
We appreciate your assistance and ongoing support.
From Friday 1 June 2020, camping and picnic areas in State forests are open.
Permits are required for a range of activities including
The permit system allows us to manage the competing demands on our forests.
A number of State forests are currently closed due to the fire situation in NSW.
Please check the current closure list here before planning to visit any State Forest. Fossicking and firewood collection are not permitted in closed forests even with a permit.
Please note that the 2019-20 bushfire season means we have limited forests available for 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
Permits are available for apiary (bee keeping) 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 are 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.
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.
Forest Permits are required for some events and activities in State forests. Some forests are not available for events.
Please contact your closest Forestry Corporation office to discuss your proposed activity or event before applying for a Forest Permit.
To apply for a Forest Permit, please download and complete the following forms and submit to your local Forestry Corporation office or contact. A minimum of four weeks is required for a full permit application to be assessed (see forms below, and large events may require 90 days). We endeavour to facilitate all recreational pursuits however some permit applications may not be approved.
Please note that permit processing times may be further affected in areas where resources are diverted to bushfire reparation works being undertaken.
Forest Permits attract fees which are generally based on the nature, intensity and number of people involved in the activity. Some activities may be exempt from fees. Your local Forestry contact will discuss your permit fees and other requirements with you:
Note: a copy of your public liability insurance will also be required. Forestry Corporation may request additional information and place conditions on your permit.
Permits are required for photography and filming in State forests. Fees apply. Please contact the closest Forestry Corporation office to discuss your proposed filming and complete the Forests permit - application form [Word].