How do you reduce wildfire risk and increase holiday cheer? By obtaining a Christmas Tree Permit of course! Removal of small diameter trees from selected areas reduces wildfire risk by reducing over-growth, particularly among firs. Effective November, Tahoe National Forest and Plumas National Forest have both opened their tree-cutting programs for the season. Species available to cut are pine, fir, or cedar. Details by the National Forest are below.
Tahoe National Forest Permits
The cost is $10 per tree and the maximum number of trees is two. The permits are available for the American River Ranger District, Sierraville Ranger District, Truckee Ranger District, and Yuba River Ranger District. Refer to the
maps for each Ranger District to identify cutting areas. Remember to keep vehicles on National Forest System roads and park safely off of the roadway in legal areas. No off-road travel allowed.
Plan ahead so that you know what size tree you need and have the tools necessary to get the job done. Keep in mind the stipulations of the permit for Tahoe National Forest: the maximum tree height is 20 feet, max stump height is 12 inches, and max stump diameter 6 inches. Do not cut isolated trees growing in the open and take the whole tree not just the top. If snow is on the ground remove it so you can accurately measure the stump and tree height.
Plumas National Forest Permits
Again, the cost is $10 per tree and the maximum number of trees is two. Additional stipulations for Plumas National Forest include: trees must be less than 6 inches in diameter (measure at ground level), stump heights must be less than 12 inches, and no live branches should be left remaining on the stump. If snow is on the ground remove it so you can accurately measure the stump and tree height.
