Police have received a number of complaints over recent weeks in relation to problems associated with illegal wood collecting.   Landowners have raised concerns for their property and livestock after several incidents of damage, theft and trespass.

Police would like to remind everyone that in order to collect firewood, you must either do it on your own land, have permission from the land owner or have a permit from Forestry Tasmania. In ALL other cases, it is classified as stealing and anyone detected may face charges of stealing, trespass or unlawful possession as well as forfeiture of the wood.

Permits for collecting firewood from Forestry land can be obtained from Forestry Tasmania and the person responsible must have it with them at all times when collecting/ carting wood.

If you are purchasing from a firewood supplier, check to make sure that the wood has not been illegally sourced. Reputable firewood dealers should be able to provide you with assurances of where the wood has come from. Purchasing wood from suppliers who are members of the Australian Firewood Association is an easy way to be confident that your wood has been sourced legally.

Police would advise anyone engaged in this activity have the appropriate safety gear and recommend against tree-felling and collecting wood at night.  It is also advised to ensure that vehicles used in this activity are registered and roadworthy, otherwise traffic and road safety offences could apply.

Police will be paying close attention to anyone suspected of being involved in illegal wood collection and will intervene where appropriate.  Anyone caught engaging in illegal wood collection may be proceeded against for breaches of legislation including; stealing, unlawful possession, trespass & relevant traffic offences.