Big Idea
- The Prescott National Forest is offering Christmas tree permits
- They will be available for purchase on October 14
- This year, permits are only available by mail
- Permits are sold on a first-come, first-served basis
- Read more...
Start a new family tradition this year!
PRESCOTT, AZ – October 8, 2021— Christmas tree permits for the Prescott National Forest will be available for purchase starting on October 14, 2021. This season 500 permits will be available to purchase online through Recreation.gov and 100 permits will be available at district offices. Details about designated cutting areas, dates and types of trees that may be cut may be found here - Prescott National Forest Christmas Tree Permit in Arizona - Recreation.gov
“For every tree that is found, cut and carried home as a holiday fixture, a new story is created,” said USDA Forest Service Chief Randy Moore. “These stories become the precious memories that create traditions worth carrying on for generations and further connect families with their local forests.”
To purchase a Christmas tree permit online, visit Recreation.gov and search for Prescott 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 login to a Recreation.govaccount to complete the transaction.
To purchase a Christmas tree permit locally you can call the Bradshaw/Chino Valley Ranger District at 928-443-8000. Please leave your name and phone number, we will call back in the order calls are received. Procedures and protocol have been implemented to protect the health and safety of employees and members of the public during the COVID-19 outbreak in accordance with guidance from federal and state authorities. Because of these new procedure’s permits will only be available through the mail. Permits will be mailed to customers within two weeks with a map showing designated cutting areas and additional Christmas tree cutting instructions.
Rules for Christmas Tree Permits
- Permits will be sold on a first-come, first-served basis until they are gone.
- The permit will allow the holder to cut a tree within designated cutting areas between the dates of November 1 through December 24.
- Each Christmas tree permit is $20 and allows permit holders to cut a tree up to 10 feet tall.
- A customer may purchase only one tree permit, which is intended for his or her family. However, any remaining permits after December 1 can be purchased by anyone.
- Permits are for personal use only.
- Trees must be cut within designated cutting areas.
- No refunds on Christmas tree permits.
In order to receive a FREE Every Kid Outdoors Christmas tree permit, the 4th grader must possess a valid Every Kid Outdoors pass or voucher. This free Christmas tree permit is available to obtain with their pass online; to do so visit Recreation.gov and search for Prescott National Forest Christmas Tree Permits. At checkout select the option for Every Kid Outdoors and enter your card ID number to complete checkout and obtain the permit. If your fourth grader has not obtained an Every Kid Outdoors voucher, please go to https://everykidoutdoors.gov/pass.htm and follow the instructions.
Tree cutters are reminded to be prepared for sudden weather changes and colder conditions when in higher elevations. A fun family outing can become miserable and even dangerous with a quick change of weather for the unprepared. The permits expire at midnight on December 24; however, forest officials recommend cutting your tree early in the season before the higher elevations are snow bound. Trees can stay fresh for quite some time if cared for correctly.
For more information on Christmas tree permits on the Prescott National Forest, please call the Bradshaw – Chino Valley Ranger District Office at (928) 443-8000 or Forest Offices for the Prescott National Forest at 928-777-2200.
