Christmas tree permits available online for the upcoming holiday season

Boise, Idaho, Nov. 20, 2025 — Christmas tree permits are now available for purchase online through Recreation.gov. Details about designated cutting areas, dates, and types of trees that may be cut may be found here.

To purchase a Christmas tree permit, visit Recreation.gov and search for the Boise National Forest Christmas Tree Permits. It is important to carefully read the overview and need-to-know information prior to purchasing the permit. Visitors will also need to set up or log in to a Recreation.gov account to complete the transaction.

Christmas tree permits are $10 per tree, with a limit of three permits, and are valid through Dec. 25, 2025. Permits can also be purchased at our Ranger District offices, the Supervisor’s Office in Boise, and at the following businesses:

• B & W Fuels 1900 N Washington Ave. Emmett, ID 208-365-2291
• East Cleveland Beverage and Tackle 2518 E Cleveland Caldwell, ID 208-459-6442
• Ray’s Corner Market 445 State Hwy. 55 Horseshoe Bend, ID 208-793-2391
• Horseshoe Hardware 110 Foss St. Horseshoe Bend, ID 208-793-2214
• Garden Valley Market 284 Village Circle Garden Valley, ID 208-462-3817
• Garden Valley Exxon 1086 Banks Lowman Road Garden Valley, ID 208-462-3869
• Anderson Hardware & Supply 3845 Hwy. 21 Idaho City, ID 208-392-2271
• Idaho City Grocery 3868 Hwy. 21 Idaho City, ID 208-392-4426
• Gentry’s Outpost 200 Main St, Idaho City, ID 208-258-9809

All permit holders must follow the requirements and map that accompany their permit. These permits only allow cutting on Boise National Forest lands and it’s the responsibility of the user to know where they are. Visit our Maps and Guides page for more information. Smartphone maps capable of being used without cell coverage are available through the Avenza app.

Be aware that forest roads can be covered with snow and ice, are not plowed, and visitors should use extreme caution when driving. Call ahead and check websites for road conditions before heading out. It is a good safety practice to let somebody know precisely where you are going and when you plan to return. Cell coverage is limited or nonexistent over most of the Boise National Forest.

Fourth graders 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 (note: a $2.50 reservation fee will be applied).

Cutting a Christmas tree also improves forest health. The permit system helps thin densely populated stands of small-diameter trees. Local forest health experts identify areas that benefit from thinning trees that 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 forage for wildlife.

For more information, visit these 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
• Every Kid Outdoors Fourth Grade Pass program