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Personal Use Firewood Permits

Firewood permits are required to cut, gather, and transport firewood on the Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest. The permit availability, cost, types of wood, cutting areas, and season can vary depending on the Ranger District.

It is also extremely important for firewood cutters to pay special attention to the terms and conditions of their permit. A permit is good for gathering firewood from the time of purchase through the termination date stated on the permit.

Even though permits are available, some cutting areas could still be inaccessible due to snow or wet conditions. Woodcutters should contact the Ranger District where they plan to cut to check road conditions before heading out to cut wood.

Proper and responsible use of vehicles on Forest roads is important to ensure roads remain in good shape for all visitors. Causing damage to roads and other Forest resources can be a violation of federal regulations, which could carry a fine up to $5,000 and/or six months in jail.

Even though it is suggested that vehicles should park completely off the main roadway and no more than one car length from roads, woodcutters need to avoid driving off the road onto wet, unstable ground. This will help prevent them from getting stuck or leaving behind large, deep ruts.

Late spring and early fall are the best times to cut firewood. In mid-summer, as the woods dry out and temperatures heat up, restrictions may be imposed due to high fire danger. Restrictions could include limiting chainsaw use to hours before 1 p.m. or enacting temporary area closures.

Forest officials would also like to remind woodcutters that they cannot cut trees in administrative sites, such as campgrounds, as doing so would create unnecessary risk of injury to people and property. Also, a dead tree is one that does not have any green needles on it, otherwise it is considered a live tree. Do not cut a tree with visible signs of wildlife using it as a home.  

In addition, a fire extinguisher and shovel are required when using a chainsaw for cutting firewood. Learn more about fire restrictions. 

Ranger District Firewood Programs

Last updated April 29th, 2025

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