Umpqua National Forest Christmas Tree Permit
Cutting your Christmas tree on the Umpqua National Forest is a cherished tradition that transforms a simple holiday task into a memorable adventure. Each year, families and friends build lifelong memories as they navigate the forest to find the perfect tree. Have a fun and safe day on the forest by thoroughly reading the permit page. To help preserve this special tradition for future generations, follow the tree selection rules. If you have further questions, do not hesitate to reach out to one of the ranger stations below.
Need to Know
Selecting Your Tree
Each forest has limitations on the size of the tree you can cut and the species of trees that are permitted. See below to help you measure and choose a tree that meets your permit's guidelines.
Tree Height: 15 feet maximum.
Spacing: Leave trees 12 feet apart for future forest development.
Stump height: Cut as close to the ground below the lowest live branch as possible.
Take the whole tree. Do not remove the top of the tree; cut down the entire tree.
If snow is on the ground, remove it from around the stump so you can accurately measure the stump and tree height.
Where to Cut Your Tree
DO NOT FORGET to print your maps. A map must accompany your permit relative to where you plan to harvest.
Do not cut on private land, in wilderness areas, experimental forests, research natural areas or existing tree plantations.
Do not cut in active timber sales or areas that have been planted with new trees.
Do not cut trees within sight of campgrounds or recreation sites.
Do not go around gates and barricades with a motorized vehicle. Cutting is allowed behind locked gates and barricades unless posted with “No Cutting” signs but only accessible by foot.
Do not cut trees within areas posted "No Christmas Tree Cutting.”
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 or chainsaw 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.
Sno-park passes are required to park in sno-parks.
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.
Bring a map with you. Don’t rely on GPS because it may not be up-to-date with forest service roads. Start your day early. Be sure to find your tree and leave the woods before dark. Bring plenty of food and water with you as well as an overnight survival kit in case you become stranded. 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.
