Forest Products Permits
Gathering Firewood
The Nez Perce-Clearwater National Forests will continue to offer free personal use firewood cutting permits in 2023. Those wishing to cut firewood in 2023 need to acquire a permit from a Forest Service office.
Permits are valid for one calendar year, from January 1 to December 31. Each permit is good for a maximum of 12 cords of firewood. Permits are available in–person by appointment or can be delivered via email or postal mail. Please contact your local Forest Service office for more information about the personal use firewood program and to acquire your permit.
Firewood Gathering Maps
2023 Palouse Ranger District Firewood Map
Personal use firewood permits allow for the removal of downed timber or the cutting of standing dead trees for firewood on most areas of the Nez Perce-Clearwater National Forests. The permits are also valid on other National Forest System lands in the Forest Service’s Northern Region, which includes north Idaho, Montana, and parts of the Dakotas. These permits do not allow for the collection of posts, poles, and rails, the cutting of green trees, or any commercial harvesting. They also do not apply to collecting products on public lands outside of the National Forest System. Firewood cutting permits aren’t necessary for small amounts of campfire kindling. Firewood taken from National Forests is for personal use only and cannot be sold.
Remember to keep your permit with you at all times when harvesting and transporting firewood. Be prepared for your visit to the forest by being aware of weather and travel conditions in the area you are visiting and by bringing with you appropriate equipment and gear for your trip, including emergency preparedness gear. National Forest Visitor Maps ($14) and Motor Vehicle Use Maps (free of charge) are also available at Forest Service offices for your use.
Christmas Tree Permits
Christmas Tree Permits are available from October 12, 2023 until December 31, 2023. Individuals can cut up to three trees per person at a cost of $5 per tree. Permits can be purchased through Recreation.gov and are valid through December 31, 2023. Christmas trees cannot be cut that are visible from major roads, within 150 feet of streams and creeks, or in other well used areas. Trees must be a maximum of 12 feet high and cutting tree tops is prohibited.
Minerals
Collecting rocks, say for backyard landscaping, requires a permit. Please contact your local Forest Service office for more information.