Misdemeanor Risk: Are You Violating Oklahoma’s Timber Ownership Rules?

Essential Guidelines for Timber Resale Compliance Explained

Hello, I’m Oklahoma City misdemeanor attorney Dillan Savage of Wirth Law Office, and I practice primarily in the Oklahoma City, Oklahoma area. Today we are going to be talking about some of the requirements placed on individuals who are in the business of buying timber for the purpose of resale.

We are going to be looking at sawmills and individuals operating those sawmills, as well as any other person in the practice and field of buying timber for resale. Specifically, we are looking at Title 2, Section 16-65. This statute is titled Evidence of Ownership to be Required by Timber Purchasers.

Evidence of Ownership for Timber Purchases

Individuals who buy timber for resale are required to obtain evidence from the seller to confirm that they actually have the ownership or authority to sell that timber. That evidence must be preserved for at least three years. Three years is the minimum.

There are three acceptable ways to provide this evidence. The most common and detailed method is through a Bill of Sale. According to the statute, the Bill of Sale must include the name and address of both the seller and the purchaser, a legal description of the land where the timber was harvested, a description of the timber delivered, the delivery date, the printed name of the person delivering the timber, and finally, the date and signature of the person delivering the timber, along with a declaration of ownership or identification of the person for whom they are acting as an agent.

Alternative Proof of Ownership Options

If a Bill of Sale is not available, proof of ownership—such as documentation showing the timber came from the seller’s property—is acceptable. A purchase agreement that proves the seller was legally entitled to sell the timber is also valid.

Again, you must keep this evidence for at least three years. If you fail to follow this statute, you could be found in violation of the Oklahoma Department of Forestry’s regulations and face fines or potentially be charged with a misdemeanor.

Ensuring Compliance and Avoiding Violations

So if you are in this business, make sure you follow this statute to avoid any violations. If you found this video to be helpful, or you believe it could help someone else, please go to theoklahomacityattorney.com. My name is Dillan Savage, and I’m the Oklahoma City criminal defense attorney with Wirth Law Office. Thank you for watching.