Need a fishing licence? Wonder how to get a wilderness camping permit? Here's the scoop on our Yukon legal requirements to help you plan your Yukon visit:
Travelling with Kids?
Make sure you have your children’s birth certificates with you. If a child is travelling with just one parent, proof-of-custody papers or a letter of permission from the absent parent are required. Unaccompanied people under 18 should bring a letter of permission from their parent or guardian.
Vehicle Insurance and Driver's Licence
It’s the law in the Yukon that drivers must carry at least $200,000 third-party liability insurance. Also, to drive in the Yukon you must have either an international driver’s licence or a driver's licence with photo ID.
Wilderness Camping Permits
If you’re planning an overnight trip in any of the Yukon’s national parks, you’ll need to register. For a few popular routes, you’ll also need a permit and there may be a limit on the number of people in your group. These popular routes include the Chilkoot Trail, the Alsek River in
Kluane National Park and the Firth River in
Ivvavik National Park. For details, call
Parks Canada on 1-800-661-0486. Backcountry camping permits are also required for campsites in
Tombstone Territorial Park.
Fishing Licences
If you plan to fish, you’ll need a licence. You can get one at most sporting goods stores and other commercial facilities. A separate national park fishing licence is required in
Kluane National Park. Visit
Environment Yukon for further information about fishing licences and regulations.
Hunting Licences
If you’re planning to hunt in the Yukon you will need licences and permits. If you’re planning to go big game hunting, you must go with a licensed Yukon guide. You can get hunting licences from
Environment Yukon by calling (867) 667-5221, but be aware there's a waiting period.
Firearm Regulations
Canada has strict gun control laws. Handguns are prohibited and firearms for hunting or sport purposes must be declared at the border. If you have obtained authorization from the Canadian Firearms Centre, you may possess a rifle or shotgun for protection against bears, except in National Parks. If you shoot a bear you must report it, and turn in the skull and hide to a conservation officer. For more information, call the
Canadian Firearms Centre at 1-800-731-4000. If you’re arriving by air, check whether your airline will be adding any firearms handling fees.
Licensed Wilderness Tourism Companies
The Yukon has special legislation designed to protect both travellers and the Yukon wilderness.
Licensed wilderness operators have to meet strict requirements including public liability insurance coverage and valid First Aid/CPR certification. Operators must at a minimum practise low impact camping and waste disposal. For additional information visit the
Wilderness Tourism Association of the Yukon website.