Olympic National Forest Christmas Tree Permit
This permit allows you to cut a Christmas Tree within the Olympic 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
Where to Cut Your Tree
Trees may be cut from along roads, from forest plantations and in the understory of older stands.
Be sure to be on Forest Service land. Know before you go.
Cut trees only if there is a standing tree within 10 feet to avoid denuding areas.
Do not cut trees within 100 feet of campgrounds or trailheads.
Christmas tree cutting is PROHIBITED within the Quinault Special Management Area, designated wilderness, and Research Natural Areas.
Selecting Your Tree
Any evergreen is available for cutting except Western White Pine
Tree Height: 15 feet maximum
Do not remove the top of the tree; cut down the entire tree
Washington State Law requires a hauling permit for hauling more than five trees on/in a vehicle at one time.
Planning Your Trip
How to Plan Your Trip
You must print and bring your Christmas Tree Permit with you.
Cell service may be spotty or unavailable. Be sure someone knows where you are and when to expect you back.
Check the latest weather conditions, forest warnings and road closures before you leave on your trip, conditions can deteriorate rapidly in the mountains.
Bring a map with you. Don’t rely on GPS because it may not be up-to-date with forest service roads.
Dress warmly and take extra dry clothes. Expect winter weather, including cold temperatures, snow and winds.
Roads are not plowed. Carry tire chains, shovel(s) and a tow chain
Helpful Cutting Tips
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.
