Hunting outside of Traditional Territory 

Aboriginal Rights only apply within your traditional territory. If you plan to hunt in another territory, make sure you obtain permission.

  • You MUST hunt with a Possession and Acquisition licence (PAL). There are specific regulations in place to help Aboriginal people acquire a PAL. 
  • It is good practice to have a permission letter from the Nation’s Chief and Council if your are hunting in a different territory as Governments and Conservation Officers do not always honor verbal agreements between First Nation’s.
  • You must harvest in accordance with their First Nation’s laws and BC Hunting & Fishing Regulations.
  • If you have Indian Status, you do not need a hunting or fishing license to hunt on another First Nation’s land.

Examples of Conservation & Public Health and Safety rules that apply to Aboriginal hunters:

  • Only hunt in areas that require an Limited Entry Hunting (LEH) Permit if you have one. 
  • No hunting or shooting near residential neighborhoods, roads or recreational areas.
  • No hunting at night with a spotlight (in some cases).

Check out the Aboriginal Harvesting Rights in British Columbia Guide for detailed information on harvesting.