Frequently Asked Questions
Answers
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Can I camp in a Forest Land Use Zone? Yes. Camping is generally permitted within FLUZs. However, some FLUZs have designated camping areas and/or other restrictions. Please refer to the specific information provided for the FLUZ you will be visiting. |
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Can I have a fire in a Forest Land Use Zone? Yes, responsible use of campfires for cooking or warming purposes is usually allowed. Campfires, in accordance with the Forest Prairie and Protection Act, are permitted within FLUZs. However, some FLUZs allow fires only in designated camping areas and/or have other restrictions. Please refer to the specific information provided for the FLUZ you will be visiting. Fires are not permitted when firebans are in effect. If available, use existing campfire facilities, portable camping stoves, or fire pits. |
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What activities are still allowed in Forest Land Use Zones where motorized vehicle use is prohibited? Most non-motorized activities (camping, hiking, hunting, skiing, canoeing, etc.) are permitted within FLUZs, in accordance with the regulation. |
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Why is grazing and tethering of horses not allowed within 100 metres of lakes and streams in some of the Forest Land Use Zones? This requirement prevents water contamination and erosion of shorelines caused by trampling and overgrazing. Equestrian users are encouraged to high-line their horses to prevent damage to roots. |
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Why are horse users required to provide their own feed in certain areas? Providing supplemental feed for horses prevents overgrazing and ensures adequate forage for wildlife. In addition, using weed-free feed helps to prevent the spread of noxious weeds. |
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What is being done to ensure the regulations in Forest Land Use Zones are being followed? Alberta Sustainable Resource Development staff engage recreationists through major community and recreation events to build understanding and awareness of FLUZ regulations and to encourage responsible use and stewardship. Staff routinely patrol FLUZs to monitor compliance and provide information to recreational users on the “Respect the Land” programs and responsible recreation. SRD Forest Officers, Fish and Wildlife Officers, and Seasonal Guardians partner with RCMP, Conservation Officers, Sheriffs and municipal enforcement officers to ensure public safety and responsible recreation throughout the province. During peak periods, such as the May and September long weekends, additional resources are brought in through collaborative efforts with other departments and the RCMP. Learn more about responsible recreational land use:
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What if recreationists ignore the regulations? The Forest Recreation Regulation enables law enforcement officers to issue tickets and/or require a court appearance for contravention of the regulations and offenders could face fines of up to $1000 per violation. |
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Are there exceptions that may permit motorized vehicle access in Forest Land Use Zones that have restrictions in place? Yes, but only in the following circumstances: Some motorized vehicles used by trappers are allowed within the limits of registered trapping areas. A permit is required and timing restrictions apply. Ministerial approval may be given for motorized vehicle use for special research in a zone. Motorized vehicles used to conduct industrial activity are allowed by permit if a disposition has been approved for that activity by the Minister of Sustainable Resource Development. |
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Is industrial activity allowed in Forest Land Use Zones? Yes. Industry operates under an existing regulatory framework that applies to all public land, including FLUZs. This means that proposals for industrial development and activities within FLUZs are evaluated through review and approval processes that exist for all public land. There are a variety of enforcement and remediation actions to address failure to comply with rules and regulations. |
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Are there any other laws that apply in the Forest Land Use Zones? Yes. Other legislation, such as the Traffic Safety Act and Liquor and Gaming Act, are applicable in FLUZs. |
