Tahoe National Forest Christmas tree permits available starting Nov. 7 

Keep winter traditions alive this holiday season by bringing home a Christmas tree from the Tahoe National Forest. Breathe in cool mountain air, feel the forest floor crunching beneath your boots, and experience the thrill of finding that perfect tree in a hidden glade to cut down with your family.   

Did You Know? 

Cutting a Christmas tree improves forest health. The permit system helps to thin densely populated stands of small-diameter trees. Local forest health experts identify areas that benefit from thinning trees and tend to be the perfect size for Christmas trees. Removing these trees in designated areas helps other trees grow larger and can open areas that provide food for wildlife. 

Guidelines & Tips 

• Permits can be purchased online through recreation.gov

• A limited number of permits are available to purchase in-person at district offices. Call ahead to ensure permit availability. 

• Permits are $10 and valid for one tree (limit two permits per household). 

• Permits may only be used on the Tahoe National Forest between Nov. 7 and Dec. 31, 2023. 

• Permits may only be used to harvest a tree on the Tahoe National Forest between Nov. 7 and Dec. 31, 2023. 

• Fourth grade students with an Every Kid Outdoors pass are eligible for a free Christmas tree permit and can apply by entering the pass or voucher number when purchasing a permit online. 

For the best experience while harvesting a Christmas tree, review additional guidelines and safety information provided on Recreation.gov or when purchasing a permit in-person: 

• Off-road motor vehicle travel is not allowed. Permit holders should be prepared to hike, ski or snowshoe to find their Christmas tree, and should bring a tape measure, saw or ax, tarp and rope to cut and transport their tree. 

• The Tahoe National Forest has limitations on tree sizes and species that are available for cutting. Permit holders are asked to review both requirements and tree cutting maps to ensure their selected tree meets permit guidelines and is located within forest boundaries. 

• Although tree cutting is permitted through the end of December, officials recommend cutting early in the season before higher elevations become inaccessible due to snow and ice. Trees can stay fresh for several weeks if properly stored. Because trees begin to lose moisture as soon as they are cut, place them in water as soon as possible. 

• Be prepared for unpredictable weather changes and cold conditions in higher elevations. Check weather and road conditions prior to departure. Ensure your gas tank is full, and pack warm clothing, water, emergency food and tire chains. 

Online Resources 

• Recreation.gov Christmas Tree Permit page with map interface 

• Help Center article “How Do I Purchase and Print a Christmas Tree Permit?” 

• Cut a Tree for the Holidays from Your National Forest article 

• Share Your Story adventure writing contest 

• Every Kid Outdoors Fourth Grade pass program 

• Every Kid Outdoors Christmas tree ornament coloring page 

To purchase a permit in-person, call your local Forest Service office for hours of operation and to ensure that permits are still available: 

Supervisor's Office 
Nevada City, CA 
(530) 265-4531 

American River Ranger District 
Foresthill, CA 
(530) 492-5631 
 
Sierraville Ranger District 
Sierraville, CA 
(530) 430-8912 
 
Truckee Ranger District 
Truckee, CA 
(530) 587-3558