Permits
Various permits are available on the National Forests and Grasslands in Texas. The Forest Service provides many goods and services in a sustainable manner.
Permits help to provide those opportunities while protecting the natural resources.
Firewood Permits
National Forests and Grasslands in Texas
Need firewood for personal use? Firewood permits are available across the National Forests and Grasslands in Texas. These permits allow individuals to gather downed and designated trees for personal use only.
Where and When
Firewood permits are offered on the National Forests and Grasslands in Texas. Permits are typically offered on the Angelina, Davy Crockett, Sabine, and Sam Houston National Forests, as well as the Caddo and Lyndon B. Johnson National Grasslands.
Please contact the nearest ranger district office to assist you with the firewood permit process.
How to Get a Permit
- Call or Visit Your Local Ranger District Office
Let them know you’re interested in a firewood permit. Staff will walk you through the process. - Complete the Permit Application
Permits are issued in person. You’ll need to complete a short application and provide a valid photo ID. - Pay the Permit Fee
A minimum of 2 cords (a cord equals 128 cubic feet of wood) per permit for a $20 fee are available. - Review the Rules and Map
With your permit, you’ll receive a map showing the designated firewood marked for your permit. - Follow Safety and Usage Guidelines
All wood must be for personal, non-commercial use. Only gather wood from areas and tree types authorized in your permit and marked.
Firewood Collection Guidelines
- Cutting live trees is not allowed
- Only collect dead and down wood marked by the Forest Service.
- Chain saw use may be restricted during dry or high-fire risk conditions.
- Vehicles must remain on designated roads; off-road travel is not permitted.
- Wood must not be resold or used for commercial purposes.
Why a Permit?
Firewood permits help us manage forest resources responsibly while providing local communities with access to a traditional heating source. Permits also help track usage, protect natural areas, and ensure compliance with safety and environmental standards.
Contact Your Local Ranger District to Get Started
Special Use Permits
Before a special use proposal is approved, the agency must determine that the proposed use complies with the Forest's land and resource management plan; that National Environmental Policy Act requirements are met; there is a demonstrated need for the activity on National Forest System lands; and the use is appropriate on National Forest System lands.
None of the existing special use authorities provide for permanent use of National Forest System lands.
Special use permits for firewood, road access, etc. may be obtained by contacting the appropriate Ranger District Office for more details and information about how to obtain a permit.
Antlerless Deer Permits
For information on antlerless deer permits, contact TPWD at hunt@tpwd.texas.gov or 512-389-4505 or visit the Texas Parks and Wildlife Drawn Hunts page.