Firewood Cutting Regulations in Wisconsin

Wisconsin offers firewood cutting opportunities on both public and private lands, with rules designed to protect forests and minimize the spread of invasive pests. Here’s a comprehensive guide to cutting firewood legally in Wisconsin:

Firewood Cutting on Public Lands in Wisconsin

1. Permit Requirement:
   • A permit is required to cut firewood on public lands managed by the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR) or U.S. Forest Service (USFS).
   • Permits are issued for personal use only, not for commercial purposes.
2. Where to Get Permits:
   • Permits are available at local DNR offices, USFS ranger stations, or online for certain areas.
3. Permit Costs and Limits:
   • Fees range from $5 to $25, depending on the location, and permits typically allow up to 5 cords per household annually.
4. Application Links:
   • Wisconsin DNR Firewood Permits
   • USFS Eastern Region

General Firewood Cutting Rules in Wisconsin

1. Designated Cutting Areas:
   • Cutting is allowed only in designated zones outlined in your permit. Maps are usually provided.
2. What Can Be Cut:
   • Dead and downed trees are generally permitted.
   • Cutting live or standing dead trees requires explicit approval in the permit.
3. Seasonal Restrictions:
   • Firewood cutting seasons vary but typically run from spring to early winter, depending on weather and forest conditions.
4. Safety Requirements:
   • Use chainsaws with spark arrestors and carry basic firefighting tools, especially during dry seasons.

Area-Specific Firewood Cutting Rules

Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest

• Permit Details:
  • Permits allow for up to 5 cords per household annually.
  • Cutting is restricted to dead and downed trees in approved zones.
• Details and Maps:
  Chequamegon-Nicolet Firewood Info

State Forests and DNR Lands

• Cutting Rules:
  • Firewood cutting is allowed on certain state-managed lands with a valid DNR permit.
  • Rules vary by forest, so check with the local DNR office for specifics.
• More Info:
  Wisconsin State Forests Firewood Permits

Firewood Cutting on Private Lands in Wisconsin

1. Landowner Permission:
   • Written permission from the landowner is required to harvest firewood on private property.
2. Timber Companies and Firewood Rights:
   • Some private landowners and timber companies sell permits for firewood cutting on their properties.
3. Prohibited Practices:
   • Cutting live trees or harvesting protected species without explicit permission is illegal.

Transporting Firewood in Wisconsin

Wisconsin has strict rules on firewood transport to prevent the spread of invasive pests like emerald ash borers and gypsy moths.

1. Movement Restrictions:
   • Firewood cannot be transported more than 50 miles from its source unless it is certified heat-treated and pest-free.
2. Quarantine Zones:
   • Certain counties have quarantine zones restricting firewood movement.
3. Buy Local, Burn Local:
   • Always use firewood sourced locally to reduce pest risks.

   More Info: Don’t Move Firewood – Wisconsin

Penalties for Violations

Non-compliance with Wisconsin’s firewood regulations can result in:

• Fines up to $1,000.
• Confiscation of illegally harvested or transported wood.
• Additional penalties for spreading invasive pests.

Tips for Responsible Firewood Harvesting in Wisconsin

1. Plan Ahead:
   • Apply for permits early, as demand can be high in popular regions.
2. Check Local Restrictions:
   • Verify local quarantine zones and seasonal rules before cutting or transporting firewood.
3. Minimize Environmental Impact:
   • Scatter debris and avoid cutting near water sources or wildlife habitats.

Resources for Firewood Cutting in Wisconsin

• Wisconsin DNR Firewood Permits
• Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest
• USFS Eastern Region
• Invasive Species Rules – Wisconsin

Always verify current rules with local authorities before cutting or transporting firewood.