SOUTH LAKE TAHOE, Calif. — Christmas tree permits for National Forest lands in the Lake Tahoe Basin will be available for purchase online on Nov. 16.
To purchase a Christmas tree permit, visit Recreation.gov and search for Lake Tahoe Basin Management Unit Christmas Tree Permits. Carefully read the overview and need-to-know information prior to purchasing the permit. Visitors will also need to set up or login to a Recreation.gov account to complete the transaction and should print the permit prior to arrival at the cutting area.
Permits cost $10 each, plus a $2.50 online processing fee with a limit of one per family. Cutting under these permits is allowed until Dec. 31, to accommodate military families and others who may need to celebrate a delayed Christmas.
“For many families, venturing into the National Forest to cut their Christmas tree for the holidays is a treasured tradition carried on for generations,” said Acting Deputy Forest Supervisor Matt Jedra in a press release. “For families creating new traditions, a trip to their local forest to cut their own Christmas tree may be a thrilling experience as they discover the joy of hiking through the forest in search of the perfect holiday centerpiece.”
The Forest Service are offering online permit sales as an added convenience, as well as provide an alternative to in-person transactions at offices that may remain closed due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Permit holders may choose from a variety of pine, fir or cedar trees up to six inches in diameter (at the base) in specially designated cutting areas. Cutting area maps will be available online at the time of purchase. Select the right sized tree and be sure to choose one that is within 10 feet of another green tree. Do not remove the top of the tree, cut down the entire tree and leave a stump that is six inches or less above the ground. Scatter all discarded branches away from roads, ditches, and culverts. Place the permit on the dashboard of your vehicle before leaving the cutting area.
Permit holders should follow permit guidelines for responsible collection, including not trespassing onto private property when entering or leaving National Forest cutting areas. Observe seasonal road closures and be prepared to hike to the cutting area to find a tree.
Officials said no off-road travel is allowed and to park in legal areas that do not block gates.
Weather permitting, some forest roads will remain open to improve access to cutting areas.
Cutting a Christmas tree also improves forest health. The permit system helps to thin densely populated stands of small-diameter trees. Local forest health experts identify areas that benefit from thinning trees that tend to be the perfect size for Christmas trees. Removing these trees in designated areas helps other trees grow larger and can open areas that provide forage for wildlife.
Remember that weather conditions in the mountains are unpredictable and travel during winter weather can be dangerous due to wet or icy roads.
On stormy days, wind may cause branches or trees to fall, so visitors should avoid cutting on wet, windy days. Always check the weather before heading out and tell someone where you are going and when you plan to return.
Dress appropriately for cold weather conditions and be prepared for ice and snow. Carry tire chains and a shovel and bring emergency supplies, including water, food, blankets and a first-aid kit. Keep in mind, mobile devices may not work in some areas, so develop an emergency plan in case you cannot call for help.
For more information, visit https://www.recreation.gov/tree-permits/ltbmu.
