Christmas tree permits go on sale November 17 for Lake Tahoe Basin Management Unit

SOUTH LAKE TAHOE, Calif. - Christmas tree permits will be available in the Lake Tahoe Basin starting November 17, 2021 at 8:00 a.m. Forest officials were evaluating the availability of trees after the Caldor Fire but determined enough areas around the lake had trees. Some of the normal cutting areas may not be available but maps will be provided at the time of purchase.

This permit allows you to cut a Christmas Tree within designated areas of the Lake Tahoe Basin Management Unit.

There are 1,500 of the $10 permits available and all sales will be done online, no in-person sales (sales also have a $2.50 service fee added).

There will be no tree cutting is permitted in the Caldor Fire closure area due to ongoing hazards within the Caldor Fire perimeter. The Caldor Fire Closure Order and map are posted on the LTBMU home page at www.fs.usda.gov/ltbmu.

To purchase a permit, visit https://www.recreation.gov/tree-permits/ef5577ac-ebd5-11ea-bcba-fa43c1aabce3 on November 17. They are expected to be gone the first few hours of sales.

There are also permits available in surrounding forests:

Starting Monday, Nov. 1, permits were on sale for the Tahoe National Forest.

Humboldt-Toiyabe Forest permits also started on November 1.

Eldorado National Forest online at Recreation.gov beginning November 9 (sold out that day).

To find permits, visit recreation.gov and select the forest you're interested in.

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 a tree that is six inches or less in diameter at the base of the tree and be sure to choose a tree 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.

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. No off-road travel is allowed. Park in legal areas and do not block gates. Weather permitting, some National Forest roads will remain open to improve access to cutting areas.

Cutting a Christmas tree supports forest health by reducing the number of small-diameter trees in densely populated stands. 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.

It’s important to remember that weather conditions in the mountains are unpredictable and travel during winter weather can be dangerous due to wet and/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.