Disturbance Standard for Trapline Cabin sites on Registered Fur Management Areas on Public Land

Overview

Trapping is a long‑standing and recognized commercial use of public land in Alberta. To provide clarity, consistency and fairness for all public‑land users, the Government of Alberta has established a Disturbance Standard for Trapline Cabin Sites on Registered Fur Management Areas (RFMA) on Public Lands, that outlines policies for the construction, placement and authorization of trapping structures on RFMAs.

This disturbance standard creates an efficient process for Registered Fur Management Licence (RFML) holders to receive authorization for the trapping structures they require to safely conduct commercial trapping. Clear, province‑wide standards improve regulatory consistency, reduce land‑use conflicts and ensure trapping activities are considered alongside other public‑land uses. 

To ensure all trapping structures are properly documented and reflected in land‑use decisions, RFML holders must register both existing and new trapline cabin sites. Registration helps regulators identify authorized sites, avoid conflicts during industrial or commercial activity, and respond effectively to emergencies such as wildfires. Existing sites must be registered by October 31, 2027, while new sites must be registered prior to construction.

Before you register 

RFML holders should ensure trapline cabin sites or proposed trapping structures and locations meet the following provincial requirements;

• Disturbance Standard
  • for structure size limits, maximum site numbers, spacing requirements and environmental setbacks
• Directive for Trapline cabin sites on registered fur management areas on public lands
  • for policy direction and application requirements
• Implementation factsheet 
  • for a clear summary of allowable structures, footprint limits and registration timelines

Registration

Registering trapline cabin sites is an important step for RFML holders to ensure their trapping structures are formally recognized, authorized and incorporated into land‑use planning on public land. Registration is a one‑time process that remains valid for as long as the RFML is active and in good standing.

How to register your trapline cabin site

RFML holders must complete a registration application that identifies the location of each trapline cabin site within their RFMA, and any variances that might be present. Once submitted and approved, the site becomes officially recognized by the ministry and other land‑use regulators 

If an RFMA is transferred or assigned, the new RFML holder must re‑register any trapline cabin sites they intend to use. Structures not transferred must be removed from public land.

Existing trapline cabin sites

Existing authorized sites
Previously approved trapline cabin sites (such as Miscellaneous Lease Permits or Temporary Field Authorizations) will be reviewed and registered by ministerial staff. RFML holders may be contacted to confirm locations and continued use but are not required to make a registration.

Existing unauthorized sites
Any trapping structures not previously authorized must be registered by October 31, 2027. Staff will work with RFML holders to resolve any differences with the disturbance standard.

New trapline cabin sites

New sites must be registered before any construction takes place. Construction cannot begin until approval is issued.

When an RFMA changes holders

If an RFMA is transferred or assigned, the new RFML holder must re‑register any trapline cabin sites they intend to use. Structures not transferred must be removed from public land.

Where to find and submit forms

Online: Surface disposition forms | Alberta.ca
In person: Visit your regional land office
Email: [email protected]
Mail: Send to your regional office

After you register

Once your trapline cabin site on public land is registered and approved, it becomes officially recognized on public land. You may begin constructing and using the approved structures in accordance with the disturbance standard and your disposition conditions.

Related

Industrial and commercial land activities
Tourism and commercial recreation lease

Contact

To connect with a lands officer:

Hours: 8:15 am to 4:30 pm (open Monday to Friday, closed statutory holidays)
Phone: 780-427-2711
Toll-free in Alberta: 310-0000
Email: [email protected]

or see land management contacts.