The U.S. Forest Service is now selling Christmas Tree cutting permits. 

Christmas Tree permits can be purchased online through Recreation.gov. An additional $2.50 will be charged for all online purchases. Permits for the Leadville and Salida Districts are $10 per tree. Trees in the South Park District are $20.

When venturing out to cut a Christmas tree in the forest, bring a printed copy of the permit along with a paper map as cell service may be spotty or unavailable. Handsaws and axes are the only tools allowed—chainsaws are prohibited.     

Also, as part of the national Every Kid Outdoors initiative, all fourth graders are eligible to receive one complimentary Christmas tree permit. For students to receive a free tree permit, they must present a valid paper voucher printed from the Every Kid Outdoors website.

For information about in-person or mail-in purchasing options, please contact the individual district offices. Visit www.fs.usda.gov/main/psicc/passes-permits.