Ottawa National Forest Christmas Tree Permit
This permit allows you to cut a Christmas Tree within designated areas of the Ottawa National Forest! Lifelong memories are built during these special times and we are happy to help with any information gathering you'll need to make this trip a safe and enjoyable one.
Please be sure to read and agree to all the tips and guidelines when selecting your tree.
Need to Know
Selecting Your Tree
No trees over 25 feet in height may be cut.
Please do not cut a large tree simply for the top.
Any slash from the cutting should be removed from the cleared portion of roads or trails.
All stumps must be cut as close to the ground as possible (at least within 6 inches of the ground).
Where to Cut Your Tree
It is your responsibility to ensure that trees are removed only from FS lands and not privately owned property.
No cutting in designated wilderness, Forest Service administrative sites, developed recreation sites and/or Research Natural Areas.
Do not harvest a tree from a plantation.
Do not cut in an active timber sale area.
Do not cut any tree within 100 feet of a lake or pond.
Please call our office for Motor Vehicle Use Maps. These maps are free and show those roads and trails that are open for motor vehicle use.
Planning Your Trip
Helpful Cutting Tips
Carry your tree carefully out of the woods. Dragging the tree will rub off needles and bark.
If the tree is too big to transport inside of your vehicle, wrap it in canvas to prevent wind damage.
Once home, cut the bottom of the trunk off and place the freshly cut trunk in a bucket of water. Replenish water.
If storing your tree outside for a few days before putting it in the house, keep it in an area protected from the wind, such as the north or east side of your house or under a shaded tree.
Tools you might want to consider bringing with you include a measuring tape to ensure you select a tree that fits in your home; handsaw to cut your tree; gloves to protect your hands; boots to protect your feet; a tarp to sit on and/or to move your tree once it's cut; and rope or straps to secure your tree to your vehicle.
Choose a tree from a dense forested area, which will give the remaining trees more space to grow.
Cut the leftover branches from the stump and scatter them.
How to Plan Your Trip
Before you leave home, be sure to measure the space where you plan to place the tree in your home (height and width), and measure the space in your vehicle where you will be transporting the tree.
Cell service may be spotty or unavailable. Be sure someone knows where you are and when to expect you back.Bring a map with you. Don’t rely on GPS because it may not be up-to-date with forest service roads.
Check the latest weather conditions, forest warnings and road closures before you leave on your trip
Dress warmly and take extra dry clothes. Expect winter weather, including cold temperatures, snow and winds.
Roads may not be plowed. Carry tire chains, shovel(s) and a tow chain. Be sure your vehicle has a full tank of gas. Bring a spare key and give it to someone else in your party. Don’t get locked out of your car! Park in areas so that traffic can get by safely, and do not block gates.
Bring plenty of food and water with you as well as an overnight survival kit in case you become stranded.
Start your day early. Be sure to find your tree and leave the woods before dark
We don't recommend bringing your pets but, if you do, they must be on a leash.
