Recreation permits - frequently asked questions
When do I need a special purposes permit for recreation?
A permit to conduct a recreation activity in a State forest is required if the activity is one that is set out in the Forestry Regulations. The following recreational activities require a permit :
- Organised youth or adventure activities
- Organised recreational, civil or religious activities
- Organised rallies, competitions or demonstrations
- Organised tours and trail rides
- Commercial activities, tours and events
What are the benefits of permits?
The permit system allows Forests NSW to manage the competing demands on our forests. Permits enable Forests NSW to:
- Keep track of usage of our forests
- Ensure planned events and activities are not incompatible with each other
- More effectively deal with emergency situations
- Manage the risk of environmental damage to forests
- Ensure recreation activities are compatible with the operational timber harvesting business of Forests NSW
Permits ensure recreation users can:
- Plan events and activities ahead of time
- Assess and manage the risks associated with undertaking activities in forests
- Be covered by their organisation’s public liability insurance
Why are there fees for permits?
FNSW is a government trading enterprise and delivers services that generate income or at least are cost neutral to the organisation. Because of the nature of its business, the delivery of recreation and tourism services are complementary to, but not the same as, those conducted by National Parks, local government recreation services and the commercial sector.
How are fees calculated?
Fees generally include an application fee and a per head usage fee. Some types of activities have high administration requirements, and some activities involve intensive use of Forests NSW infrastructure such as roads and recreation sites. Usage fees aim to reflect these variations for different types of events and activities. Fees are aimed at being cost-neutral on average across all permit types. The fee structure can be viewed here. Fees are reviewed annually and are applied at the discretion of the Regional Manager.
Why have fees increased?
Forests NSW has charged fees for recreation activities for many years. The previous recreation policy Living, Working, Playing 2005-2009 set fees in 2005. These fees were applied from 2005-2009 without any increase. Forests NSW has reviewed this policy. The new policy can be viewed here. The fees have increased fees to account for inflation and a move by the organisation towards recovering costs associated with administering permits. Public access to forests by family groups remains free. The administration and provision of facilities for this usage is funded by an annual grant from the NSW Government.
Where do the fees go?
The majority of the fees collected go towards covering the cost of processing and administering permits. Any additional revenue is used to help maintain and improve recreation services and facilities.
How do I apply for a permit?
Permits are administered by regional offices. You can download the application form, medical evacuation plan, site safety plan and standard conditions here. The regional office will also request a copy of your public liability insurance. It is advisable to contact the regional office and discuss your activity prior to submitting the application. They can advise on any other details required, availability of dates and suitability of your proposed activity and location.
How long do permit applications take to process?
Application periods vary but generally permits take 2-4 weeks to process. It is advisable to submit your application at least 4 weeks before your planned event to ensure that your permit can be processed in time for your planned event.
Can a permit be revoked?
Forests NSW may revoke a permit due to weather, risk of fire or any other factor it considers relevant. If a permit is revoked Forests NSW may refund all or part of the fee paid for the permit
Can a permit be cancelled
If any condition of the permit is breached, Forests NSW has the right to cancel the permit. If the permit is cancelled the permit fee is not refunded.