Firewood Cutting Regulations in Colorado

Colorado offers ample opportunities for harvesting firewood, primarily through permits issued by the U.S. Forest Service (USFS) and the Bureau of Land Management (BLM). These rules ensure sustainable practices while protecting the environment. Here’s a detailed guide:

Obtaining a Firewood Cutting Permit

1. Permit Requirement:
   • A permit is required for cutting firewood on federal or state lands.
   • Permits are issued for personal use only, and selling the wood is prohibited.
2. Where to Get Permits:
   • Permits are available from USFS Ranger District offices or BLM Field Offices.
   • Each forest or district sets specific rules and limits, so check local guidelines.
3. Permit Costs and Limits:
   • Most permits cost between $10 and $25, covering 2–5 cords of wood.
   • Additional cords may require purchasing multiple permits.
4. Application Link:
   U.S. Forest Service – Rocky Mountain Region

General Firewood Cutting Rules

1. Designated Cutting Areas:
   • Cutting is allowed only in designated zones outlined in your permit.
   • Maps are provided with permits and must be followed strictly.
2. What Can Be Cut:
   • Only dead and downed trees are allowed unless otherwise stated.
   • Cutting green or standing live trees is prohibited.
3. Seasonal Restrictions:
   • Firewood cutting typically runs from May to November, depending on the forest.
   • Restrictions may apply during fire season or adverse weather conditions.
4. Safety Requirements:
   • Chainsaws must have spark arrestors.
   • Carry water, a shovel, and a fire extinguisher during cutting activities.

Area-Specific Regulations in Colorado

Arapaho and Roosevelt National Forests

• Permit Details:
  • Permits are required for cutting firewood on USFS lands.
  • Available May through November or until snow limits access.
• Restrictions:
  • Firewood must be for personal use.
  • Cutting is prohibited near campgrounds, roads, or water sources.
• Permit Information:
  Arapaho & Roosevelt Firewood Permits

White River National Forest

• Permit Rules:
  • Permits are required for dead and downed wood.
  • Limited to designated areas.
• Seasonal Rules:
  • Firewood cutting is allowed only during non-snow periods.
• Details and Maps:
  White River Firewood Permits

BLM Public Lands in Colorado

• Permit and Cost:
  • Firewood permits are $10 for up to two cords.
  • Dead and downed trees only; live tree cutting is prohibited.
• Rules:
  • Cutting is limited to specific areas to prevent environmental damage.
• BLM Info:
  BLM Colorado Firewood Permits

Transport and Invasive Species Rules

1. Movement Restrictions:
   • Firewood should not be transported outside local zones to prevent pest infestations.
   • Emerald ash borers and pine beetles are common threats in Colorado.
2. Buy It Where You Burn It:
   • When possible, use local firewood to minimize pest transmission risks.

   Learn more at: Don’t Move Firewood – Colorado

Enforcement and Penalties

• Penalties for Violations:
  • Cutting without a permit or outside designated areas can lead to:
    • Fines up to $5,000.
    • Confiscation of tools and equipment.
    • Potential federal charges for damage to public lands.
• Compliance Checks:
  • Rangers frequently patrol cutting zones to enforce permit rules.

Additional Resources for Colorado Firewood Cutting

• Rocky Mountain Forest Permits
• BLM Colorado Firewood Guidelines
• Invasive Species Prevention in Colorado

Always double-check local regulations before heading out to cut.