Where can I cut my own Christmas tree in California?
Short answer: Yes. You can cut your own Christmas tree in 2 national forests in California.
Lowest listed price: Klamath: $10 per tree.
Pick a forest
Klamath National Forest
Has 2026 info- Price: $10 per tree
- How many: Max 5 trees
- Permit sales: Online sales opened Oct 8, 2026 (Recreation.gov).
Lassen National Forest
Has 2026 info- Price: $10 per tree
- How many: 2 permits per household
- Permit sales: Nov 1, 2026 (in person Nov 1 – Dec 24 during business hours)
Compare side by side
| Forest | Price | How many | When to buy | Size rule | 2026 info |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Klamath | $10 per tree | Max 5 trees | Online sales opened Oct 8, 2026 (Recreation.gov). | Do not cut trees over 4 in. in diameter. | Has 2026 info |
| Lassen | $10 per tree | 2 permits per household | Nov 1, 2026 (in person Nov 1 – Dec 24 during business hours) | See the Lassen Fuelwood & Christmas Tree Cutting Map and tips page. | Has 2026 info |
Firewood permits in California
Personal-use firewood permits on these forests: Klamath ($5 per cord, $20 minimum per transaction) · Lassen ($20 for 10 cords ($2 per cord) in 2026). Compare all firewood permits.
Sources
- Forest Service: Christmas Tree Gathering (Klamath)
- Recreation.gov: Klamath National Forest Christmas Tree Permit
- Forest Service: Christmas Tree Cutting (Lassen)
Independent site. Forest Permit Finder is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or operated by the USDA Forest Service or Recreation.gov. Permit rules change; always check the official page before you go. Information last verified Oct 2026.