Whether it’s your first time or your 50th, there’s nothing quite like the tradition of heading into the forest to cut down your own Christmas tree. The fresh scent of pine, the crunch of snow underfoot, and the satisfaction of choosing the perfect tree make it an experience to look forward to all year.
But before you pack the thermos and grab the saw, read through this guide to everything you need to know about how to get your Christmas tree permit in Colorado, the best spots to cut down your tree, and where to recycle your tree after the holidays in Douglas County.
How to Get a Christmas Tree Permit
To get a Colorado Christmas tree permit, you must purchase a permit in advance. Permits are required before cutting and must be displayed on the tree after it’s harvested. Anybody found to be cutting and removing trees from without a permit can face a significant fine. Permits can be purchased online through:
Recreation.gov
For a permit to cut a tree in on national forest land, visit Recreation.gov and search for 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 log in to a Recreation.gov account to complete the transaction. Permit cost is $10 or $20, depending on location.
Bureau of Land Management (BLM)
Permits can be purchased through a local office. Check with your local BLM field office as cutting areas, guidelines and restrictions vary. Permit cost is $10.
What to Know Before You Go
- Check the rules for the specific forest or area: Each forest has its own guidelines, including designated cutting areas, cutting dates, and tree species that can be cut.
- Have your permit on you: You must have the permit with you when you are cutting.
- Consider going during the week, when there will be fewer crowds.
- Bring a handsaw: Do not use an axe to cut the tree.
- Follow the cutting rules: Cut your tree no more than six inches from the ground, and do not cut the top off of a larger tree.
- Bring a map: Make sure you know the designated cutting area and are not cutting on private land.
- Carry a shovel, chains, and other safety gear: It is a good idea to have these items on hand in case of an emergency, especially on roads that are not plowed.
Best Spots to Cut Down Your Christmas Tree Closest to Douglas County
Pike and San Isabel National Forests
- The South Platte Ranger District is closest to Denver – tree permits will sell out for this location.
- Pikes Peak Ranger District is closest to Colorado Springs, with a specific cutting area near Woodland Park.
- South Park Ranger District is near Fairplay, Jefferson, Como and Lake George.
- Salida Ranger District is near Salida and Buena Vista.
- Leadville Ranger District is closest to Leadville.
- San Carlos Ranger District is closest to Canyon City, Westcliffe and La Veta.
Purchase your permit for these locations.
Arapaho and Roosevelt National Forests
- Canyon Lakes Ranger District is closest to Larimer County near Red Feather Lakes
- Sulphur Ranger District is closest to Grand County near Granby and Grand Lake
Purchase your permit for these locations.
Bureau of Land Management
- Royal Gorge Field Office (Cañon City/Arkansas River corridor and surrounding public lands)
- San Luis Valley Field Office (Alamosa/Saguache/Rio Grande counties)
Purchase your permit for these locations.
Where to Recycle Your Christmas Tree
After the holidays are over, there are several locations in Douglas County where you can recycle your Christmas tree. Mulch is available on a self-serve basis on-site while supplies last.
Before you drop off your tree, be sure to remove all ornaments, lights, tinsel, garland, plastic wrap, tree stands, wire, rope, nails, etc.
Find Douglas County locations here. Locations include Castle Rock, Highlands Ranch, and Parker.
