Arkansas offers great opportunities for firewood cutting, whether you’re harvesting on private land or through permitted areas on public lands. However, rules and regulations ensure the practice is sustainable and safe. Here’s a complete guide to cutting firewood legally in Arkansas.
Firewood Cutting on Public Lands
If you’re planning to cut firewood on public lands like those managed by the U.S. Forest Service (USFS) or the Arkansas Department of Agriculture Forestry Division, you’ll need a permit.
- Where to Get a Permit
Permits can be obtained through local ranger districts or Forestry Division offices. If you’re cutting in areas like the Ouachita or Ozark-St. Francis National Forests, permits are a must. Visit these pages for details: - What You Can Cut
Dead and downed trees are usually allowed. Standing dead trees might be permitted in some areas, but you’ll need to check your permit. - How Much You Can Cut
Typically, permits allow cutting up to 5 cords of wood per year for personal use. - Seasonal Restrictions
Firewood cutting is often seasonal. Some areas may close during high fire-risk periods or to protect wildlife habitats.
Firewood Cutting on Private Lands
Private land offers more flexibility for firewood cutting, but you’ll need written permission from the landowner.
- Timber Company Permits
Many timber companies or landowners sell firewood permits, letting you cut storm-damaged trees, leftover logging slash, or specific designated areas. - Rules and Regulations
Always follow the guidelines provided by the landowner or permit issuer. Cutting live trees without explicit permission is prohibited.
Transporting Firewood
Transporting firewood comes with responsibilities to prevent the spread of invasive pests, like emerald ash borers or pine beetles.
- Keep It Local
Firewood should stay within the region where it was harvested unless certified pest-free. This helps prevent pests from spreading to new areas. - Why It Matters
Moving untreated firewood can introduce harmful species to healthy forests, causing long-term damage.
Penalties for Violations
Failing to follow Arkansas’s firewood regulations can lead to:
- Fines ranging from $100 to $1,000
- Confiscation of illegally cut or transported wood
- Additional penalties for damaging public lands
Tips for Responsible Firewood Cutting
- Always Get a Permit: Whether on public or private land, make sure you have the proper authorization.
- Be Safe: Carry safety gear, such as a chainsaw with a spark arrestor, gloves, and first-aid supplies.
- Follow Guidelines: Stick to cutting dead and downed wood unless otherwise permitted.
- Plan Your Transport: Avoid moving firewood over long distances unless it’s treated and certified.
360 Key Takeaways
- Permits Are Essential: Public land cutting always requires a permit. Private land requires written permission.
- Transport Carefully: Keep firewood local to prevent spreading invasive pests.
- Check Seasonal Restrictions: Some areas may close to firewood cutting during high-risk periods.
- Follow the Rules: Avoid fines and penalties by cutting only what’s allowed.