MCCALL, Idaho (CBS2) — Payette National Forest vendors will begin selling Christmas tree permits Saturday, Nov. 19. On Monday, Nov. 21, permits will be available at Forest Service offices. All permits are valid from Nov. 19 to Dec. 31.
Christmas tree permits can be purchased online at Recreation.gov. When purchasing online, be certain to specifically purchase a permit for the Payette National Forest as permits purchased online for other Forests are not valid on the Payette.
Permits purchased online are $10 and an additional $2.50 service fee and must be printed by the purchaser. Online permits can be found HERE.
Permits are available locally as well at Payette Forest vendors and by calling local Forest Service offices, paying via credit card/debit card, then curbside pickup.
Each permit allows one tree to be cut, with a limit of three permits per family. The cost of a permit purchased locally is $10. Locally purchased permits are valid on both the Payette and Boise National Forest. One permit works for both Forests.
All purchasers are provided with information about where a Christmas tree may be harvested, restrictions and helpful tips. A Christmas Tree Permit is for personal use only and the use of permits for commercial purposes is prohibited. Permits are non-refundable and the purchaser must be at least 18 years of age.
In coordination with the “Every Kid Outdoors” program, fourth-graders who are participating in the Every Kid Outdoors program can receive a free Christmas tree Permit. The U.S. Forest Service is among several federal agencies that support the Every Kid Outdoors initiative which is a nationwide call to action to build the next generation of outdoor enthusiasts.
The initiative provides a free pass to all fourth-grade students who first go to everykidoutdoors.gov and complete the application process for a pass, print the pass and visit a Forest Service office. If using the online system at recreation.gov, enter the pass number when prompted.
Commercial vendors will not be issuing a free Christmas tree permit to participants of the Every Kid Outdoors program, and free Christmas tree permits cannot be sent through the mail or electronically unless purchased through Recreation.gov.
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