The Department of Natural Resources and Forestry (DNRF) is warning sawmill and furniture shop operators that failure to obtain the required licences and permits could result in heftier fines and prison sentences, as the Finance Bill 2026 proposes increased penalties for several forestry-related offences.
Under the proposed legislation, the penalty for operating a sawmill without a licence would increase from $100,000 to $150,000.
In a media release, the DNRF, under the Division of Environment, Climate Resilience and Energy (DECRE), reminded operators that they are legally required to secure the relevant approvals before commencing operations.
Under the Sawmills Act and the Sawmills (Amendment) Act, no sawmill may operate without a valid licence issued by the Forestry Division. The annual licence fee is $2,000. Currently, operating a sawmill without a licence can result in a fine of up to $100,000, imprisonment for up to five years, and additional daily penalties for continuing offences.
Furniture shop operators are also required to obtain permits before operating. Failure to do so can attract fines of up to $100,000 and imprisonment for up to one year. Applications for furniture shop permits cost $500.
The department also reminded licence holders that licences must be prominently displayed, sawmill and furniture shop licences are due for renewal in January each year, accurate records must be maintained for inspection by Forestry officials, and no person may extract, transport or carry logs without a valid permit. Furniture shops must also comply with noise pollution regulations.
The DNRF urged operators to regularise their operations and ensure full compliance with the law to avoid penalties.
