Oregon/Washington Christmas Tree Permits
‘Tis the season! Looking for an outdoor experience to celebrate the holidays? How about cutting down your own Christmas tree? Christmas tree permits can be purchased online or from your local BLM office. Online permit sales for select areas are available here:
Purchase Christmas tree permits online
Each $5.00 permit allows the cutting of one personal-use Christmas tree, and a permit is required for each individual tree visitors wish to take home.
Find the closest office to you! Call ahead to ensure availability.
BLM Oregon/Washington interactive administrative offices map
Participating Districts:
- Burns District
- Coos Bay District
- Lakeview District
Limit of 3 tree permits per household
- Medford District
Limit of 5 tree permits per household
- Northwest Oregon District
Northwest Oregon District Office
Springfield Interagency Office
- Prineville District
- Roseburg District
Limit of 3 tree permits per household
- Spokane District
Limit of 3 tree permits per household
- Vale District
Limit of 3 tree permits per household
Before You Go
- Measure the space for the tree (height and width) and your vehicle’s cargo area.
- Inform someone of your plans, including expected arrival and return times, and the tree-cutting location.
- Check weather conditions and road closures.
- Pack food, water, blankets, and warm clothing for everyone.
- Bring a map, ensure your vehicle has a full tank of gas, and consider using studded tires or chains. Four-wheel drive may be necessary.
- Carry a spare key, shovel, and tow chain for emergencies.
- Bring a measuring tape, handsaw, tarp, and rope or straps to secure the tree.
- Dress warmly with weather-resistant clothing, including a hat, scarf, gloves, and boots.
During Your Trip
- Start early and aim to finish cutting and transporting your tree before dark.
- Park safely, without blocking gates or roads.
- Choose a tree from a dense area to allow remaining trees more space to grow. Ensure it fits the measured space.
- Cut the stump at ground level and remove leftover branches. Scatter the branches.
- Carry your tree out of the woods to avoid damaging needles and bark.
- If the tree is too large to fit inside your vehicle, wrap it in a tarp or canvas and secure it to your vehicle.
After You Return Home
- If storing the tree outside, place it in a protected area like the north or east side of your house or under a shaded tree.
- Cut off 1 inch from the bottom of the trunk and discard it.
- Submerge the trunk in water and check the water level daily. A fresh tree can absorb up to one gallon of water per day.
- Keep the tree away from heat sources like vents, fireplaces, wood stoves, radiators, TVs, and sunny windows.
- Use miniature lights to reduce heat and drying. Check for frayed wires or broken sockets. Discard and replace damaged light sets.
- Turn off the tree lights when leaving the house or going to bed.
- After Christmas, dispose of the tree responsibly through local pick-up services or chipping and compost programs. Do not burn any part of the tree in a wood stove or fireplace