Firewood Cutting Regulations in Idaho

/ State-by-State Firewood Cutting Guidelines / By

Idaho offers ample opportunities for firewood harvesting on both public and private lands. However, the state enforces specific regulations to promote sustainable practices and prevent environmental damage. Here’s a comprehensive guide to cutting firewood legally in Idaho:

Firewood Cutting on Public Lands in Idaho

  1. Permit Requirement:
    • A permit is required to cut firewood on lands managed by the U.S. Forest Service (USFS) or Bureau of Land Management (BLM).
    • Permits are issued for personal use only and cannot be used for commercial purposes.
  2. Where to Get Permits:
    • Permits can be purchased online, at ranger stations, or BLM field offices.
  3. Permit Costs and Limits:
    • Fees are typically $5 per cord, with a limit of 4–6 cords per household annually.
  4. Application Links:

General Firewood Cutting Rules in Idaho

  1. Designated Cutting Areas:
    • Firewood cutting is only permitted in designated areas marked on your permit. Maps are provided with the permit.
  2. What Can Be Cut:
    • Only dead and downed trees are allowed, unless otherwise specified in the permit.
    • Cutting standing dead trees may require additional approval.
  3. Seasonal Restrictions:
    • Firewood cutting is allowed during specific seasons, typically from May through November, depending on weather and fire risk.
  4. Safety Requirements:
    • Chainsaws must have spark arrestors.
    • Carry firefighting tools, including a shovel, water, and a fire extinguisher.

Area-Specific Firewood Cutting Rules

Payette National Forest

Boise National Forest

  • Cutting Rules:
    • Firewood permits are valid for designated areas and for personal use only.
    • Permits are available seasonally and may be limited based on conditions.
  • More Info:
    Boise National Forest Firewood Permits

BLM Public Lands in Idaho

  • Rules:
    • Firewood cutting is limited to designated areas with valid permits.
    • Dead and downed wood is preferred to preserve standing habitats.
  • Details and Permits:
    BLM Idaho Firewood Info

Firewood Cutting on Private Lands in Idaho

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

Transporting Firewood in Idaho

Idaho enforces strict transport regulations to prevent the spread of invasive species like bark beetles and emerald ash borers.

  1. Movement Restrictions:
    • Firewood must remain within the county or region where it was harvested unless it is heat-treated and labeled pest-free.
  2. Buy Local, Burn Local:
    • Use locally sourced firewood to minimize the risk of spreading pests.

    Learn more: Don’t Move Firewood – Idaho

Penalties for Violations

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

  • Fines up to $5,000.
  • Confiscation of illegally harvested wood or equipment.
  • Additional penalties for causing environmental damage.

Tips for Responsible Firewood Harvesting in Idaho

  1. Check Restrictions:
    • Verify local fire bans and seasonal restrictions before cutting or transporting firewood.
  2. Minimize Environmental Impact:
    • Scatter debris and avoid cutting near streams, trails, or wildlife habitats.
  3. Plan Ahead:
    • Apply for permits early, especially in high-demand areas.

Resources for Firewood Cutting in Idaho

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

Related Posts