Applications and Electronic Submissions

This page explains how to submit forest tenure–related applications and notifications to the Ministry of Forests.

How to submit your application or notification

Submission methods depend on the type of application and whether spatial data is required. The available submission methods have not changed.

In addition, most applications require further supporting information or additional forms to be submitted to the district office after the ESF submission has been completed.

1. Electronic Submission Framework (ESF)

Use the Electronic Submission Framework (ESF) for submissions that require standardized spatial and attribute data (XML/GML), including:

• New cutting permits
• Cutting Permit amendments that include spatial changes
• New road permits
• Road permit amendments that include spatial changes

ESF is a secure web portal used for Forest Tenures, Roads, RESULTS, and Waste submissions.

• Electronic Submission Framework (ESF) overview for licensees (PDF)
• You will need a valid BCeID or IDIR to access ESF

2. Email or Hard Copy Submission

Some forest tenure applications, amendments, and notifications are submitted directly to the appropriate Natural Resource District office or BC Energy Regulator (BCER) by email or hard copy.

This includes, but is not limited to, the following:

Cutting Permit Amendments

• Cutting Permit (CP) amendments that do not require spatial data
• CP Administrative Amendments
• CP Extensions
• CP Postponements
• CP Postponement Rescindments
• CP Professional Declarations
• CP Surrenders

Road Authorizations

• Road Permit (RP) Amendments (Retires and Reassigns)
• New RUPs
• Amendments for (Adding) Road Use Permits (RUP)
• Terminate (closing) RUPs

Road Notifications

• Notice of use of a forest service road or forest resource road authorized under permit or licence
• FSR Modification Works
• Notification Road Construction Commencement
• Notice of intent to deactivate any or all road sections authorized under a Road Permit (RP)
• Notification to end maintenance on a forest service road (for holders of a Road Use Permit (RUP) designated by the District Manager to maintain the road)
• Notification to End Maintenance on an RUP
• Notice of Industrial Use

District offices may provide additional direction on format or supporting documentation where required.

Please refer to the Forestry Applications non-spatial submission contact list to ensure your submission is sent to the correct office.

Permit and Tenure Type Information

Links to detailed information about specific forest tenure and permit types — including cutting permits, road permits, and road Use permits — are available on the Timber Harvesting Rights pages:

• Timber harvesting rights

Applicants should refer to these pages for eligibility, requirements, and supporting information related to their specific tenure or permit.

Other Electronic Systems

Forest licensees may use the following electronic systems to support forest tenure administration, reporting, and related activities. Access requires a valid BCeID or IDIR.

• FSP Tracking System
• Forest Tenure Submission and Reporting Access
• Electronic Submission Framework – “ESF”
• RESULTS – Reporting Silviculture Updates and Land Status Tracking System
• HBS – The Harvest Billing System

Natural Resource Regions and Districts

When submitting applications or other documentation, send your submission to the appropriate Natural Resource District.

Need Help?

If you are unsure which submission method applies to your application:

• Contact your local Natural Resource District office
• Refer to the applicable Use guides and process documentation

For general forest tenure administration information, see:

• Forest Tenure Administration

For additional information on Electronic Applications and Submissions, contact:

Forest Tenures Branch

ForestTenuresBranch@gov.bc.ca