Where you can legally forage

Whether you may pick mushrooms depends on who owns or manages the land, and the rules can differ between neighbouring places. A forest that allows personal-use picking next to a park that bans it is common.

Private land

You need the owner’s permission. Picking on private land without permission is trespass, even if the land is unfenced.

Public land

Public land is managed by many different agencies: national forests, national and provincial parks, state and local parks, wildlife areas, and more. Each has its own rules. In general terms, some places allow small amounts for personal use, some require a permit, and some prohibit picking altogether. National and provincial parks are often the most restrictive, but you should never assume. Check the specific place.

How to check

1. Find the managing agency for the exact place you plan to visit. Our public land pages list the manager and what we have recorded about its rules, with a link to the official source.
2. Read the state or province rules on our foraging laws pages, which are compiled from official sources.
3. Contact the land manager’s office if the rules are unclear, and ask about permits, limits and access.
4. Note the date. Rules change, so confirm with the land manager every season.

Selling and quantity limits

Selling wild mushrooms can involve separate rules, such as certification or licensing, even where personal picking is allowed. Limits on quantity or method may also apply. Our laws pages summarise what we found, but they are compiled from official sources and are not legal advice.

Be a good guest

Stay on open routes, respect closures and fire restrictions, pack out your trash, and follow the ethics in Lesson 3.