Cherokee National Forest
 

Passes & Permits

Introduction

The Cherokee National Forest manages resources to meet sustainable resource management objectives. Management protects natural resource values, public health and safety, and is consistent with the Forest land and resource management plans outlined in the Forest Plan. In order to meet these objectives, permits may be required for the occupancy and use of Forest Service land. Additionally, passes assist is funding certain management projects.

Please contact the appropriate Ranger District Office for more details and information about how to get a permit.

Types of Passes and Permits

Recreation

See the Recreation Passes and Permits page for details about these and other types of passes and permits.

  • Trail Permits for ATV, OHV, Horse, and mountain bike use
  • Outfitter/Guide Commercial Permits

Forest Products

  • Plant collection permits are required for digging plants
  • Permits are required for collecting edible material, decorative material, etc if used for commercial purposes
  • Woody material, such as Firewood. We do not issue permits for Christmas trees.

Events and Commercial Permits

  • Group use - groups larger than 75 people
  • Outfitter and/or guides, Organizational camps, Commercial Photography and Filming, and similar investments and uses

Other Permits

  • Permits for other items such as electrical easements, utility lines
  • Private roads across national forest land

Visit the Special Uses page on the Forest Service national site for additional information about permits for special uses of national forest land and resources.