Fishing, Hunting, and Gathering Cards
TFN communal fishing and hunting is regulated by the Fisheries, Wildlife, Migratory Birds and Renewable Resources Act, and applicable regulations.
TFN Members are permitted to fish, harvest aquatic plants, or hunt wildlife and migratory birds once they have been issued licenses by the Natural Resources Department. A person who is not a Member of TFN is not able to obtain a TFN Fishing License, unless that person is authorized to by the TFN Natural Resources Department or Executive Council.
TFN hunting and gathering licenses are only issued for TFN Members.
Using Bows and Firearms on Tsawwassen Lands
Discharging a firearm or bow on Tsawwassen Lands is not allowed without a permit, with certain exceptions:
(a) a farmer, or person authorized by the farmer, discharging a shotgun only, not using a single projectile, on a farm for the protection of crops, livestock or domestic animals (as defined in the Provincial Wildlife Act), which are grown or kept on the same farm;
(b) a farmer hunting on his or her own lease lands in accordance with the Wildlife Act (British Columbia) and other applicable federal and provincial laws and regulations;
(c) any person engaged in a commercial slaughterhouse operation;
(d) a Tsawwassen Member discharging a bow for cultural or training purposes which, for greater certainty, does not include hunting activities;
(e) a Tsawwassen Hunting License Holder exercising the Right to Harvest Migratory Birds or the Right to Harvest Wildlife; or,
(f) a guest of a Tsawwassen Hunting License Holder, who is accompanied by the License Holder, hunting on Tsawwassen Lands in accordance with applicable provincial and federal laws and regulations.
For information about applying for cards please contact the Natural Resources Department at 604.943.4199.
Injured/Deceased Animal Response Guide
As a modern treaty First Nation, Tsawwassen First Nation (TFN) has specific procedures for addressing sick, injured, or deceased wildlife on TFN lands that differ from those of surrounding municipalities. Due to the distinct cultural importance of certain birds in TFN culture, it is essential to follow the guidelines provided in the TFN Injured/Deceased Animal Guide to ensure respectful handling and reporting.
If you encounter wildlife in need of assistance, please avoid touching or moving the animal, as improper handling may spread diseases such as avian flu. Contact the appropriate wildlife professionals listed in the guide, and for birds of cultural significance, such as hawks, herons, or eagles, the Natural Resources Department is available to handle these cases for ceremonial purposes. Refer to the guide below for contacting authorities outside of work hours when TFN Natural Resources staff would not be available.
Your cooperation helps us protect our community and environment while honouring TFN cultural values.
Click here for a larger version of the guide.
