Christmas Tree Permits Available For Olympic National Forest

WASHINGTON — Seasonal permits are now available for Washingtonians looking to add a little adventure to the Christmas tree selection. For just $5, families can cut down a Christmas tree inside Olympic National Forest. While there are several specific rules to be aware of, there is a wide swath of Forest Service land where tree-cutting is allowed with the permit.

The rules allow for any evergreen, except the Western White Pine, as long as the tree is no more than 15 feet tall and not located in a prohibited area.

Here are the basics from Recreation.gov:

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

• 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.
• Any evergreen are 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.

Christmas tree permits can be purchased online via Recreation.gov.