Utah BLM: Holiday tree-cutting permits now on sale

SALT LAKE CITY — Utah Bureau of Land Management began selling non-commercial Christmas tree-cutting permits on Tuesday. And one must have a permit to remove a tree from public lands. 

Each year, tree-cutting permits allow for the removal of some trees from select areas. For some families, going to the forest and cutting a Christmas tree has become a tradition. 

Tree-cutting permits help support the health of Utah forests by preventing overpopulation. 

According to the United States Forest Service, they help decrease populations in areas that may become overcrowded with smaller-diameter trees. Removing them can benefit the growth of other trees. 

Buying a tree-cutting permit

Each permit costs $10 according to BLM. They are available online or in person at any of the BLM field offices. A map of areas where tree-cutting is permitted is also found online. 

But before you buy a tree-cutting permit, check the BLM website for regulations in the area you intend to visit. 

The BLM said that each land management district determines how many permits will be available, and which tree species can be harvested. BLM recommends going early to cut a tree, as winter snow can complicate attempts or make them impossible. 

Related: Live Christmas tree permits still available but only in some locations