Resource road safety information

Resource roads are not built or maintained to the same standards as public highways. Many resource roads are not maintained for vehicular traffic. Most resource roads have rough, loose gravel surfaces and are narrow (often one lane wide).

Road safety and common hazards

Resource roads do not have signs or barriers identifying all hazards or dangers. Common hazards include:

Where avalanche paths exist the roads may be partially covered with residual debris. As always, caution is advised on all roads and back-country travellers should be aware of rapidly changing weather and stream flows which may affect road conditions. 

Please read road safety, road use regulations and road policy information before travelling on forest service roads. Please note that Forest Service Road Use Regulations including speed restrictions and insurance requirements are in effect and enforced. 

Road safety resources

• Video: Resource Road Orientation (YouTube)
• Video: Radio Use and Road Calling Procedures (YouTube)
• Pamphlet: Resource Road User Safety Guide (PDF, 1.2MB)

Road closures and information for driving on Forest Service Roads

A Forest Service Road may be closed to vehicular access for safety or environmental reasons. These closures may be temporary in nature, so check back regularly for updated information. Be advised that there may be instances where an event on a road or bridge has not yet been identified. Those using Forest Service Roads and other resource roads should do so with caution.

Find out which natural resource district applies to you (PNG, 30MB)

Road and bridge maintenance

Forest Service Roads and bridges on Crown land across the province are monitored for meeting efficient and economical engineering standards. Engineering staff work with forest licencees, the public and First Nations to monitor roads and bridges. 

Road Deactivation

The intent of road deactivation is to place a road in a self-maintaining state that will indefinitely protect adjacent resources. Road deactivation requirements typically include removing bridges and stream culverts, stabilizing the road prism, and barricading the road surface width in a clearly visible manner to prevent access by motor vehicles (other than all-terrain vehicles).

Road Funding Policy

The Ministry of Forests allocates limited annual funding to maintain, improve, and, when necessary, deactivate Forest Service Roads (FSRs). Funding is prioritized for roads that provide essential access to communities, rural residences, and high‑value recreation sites. With a limited capital budget focused on major upgrades and an operational budget supporting routine maintenance, the Ministry focuses on the highest‑use, most critical routes. Roads without active industrial users may revert to wilderness status and could eventually require deactivation to protect public safety and environmental values.

• Fact Sheet - Engineering Roads Funding Policy (PDF, 164KB)
• FAQ – Engineering Roads Funding Policy (PDF, 220KB)