Firewood Cutting Regulations in California

/ State-by-State Firewood Cutting Guidelines / By

California has specific firewood cutting rules, primarily focusing on environmental preservation and wildfire prevention. The state requires individuals to follow guidelines set by the U.S. Forest Service (USFS), the Bureau of Land Management (BLM), and local authorities. Here’s an in-depth guide:

Obtaining a Firewood Cutting Permit

  1. Permit Requirement
    • Cutting firewood on federal or state lands in California requires a firewood permit.
    • Permits are issued by the U.S. Forest Service, BLM, or other local land management agencies.
  2. Where to Get Permits
  3. Permit Costs and Limits
    • Fees vary by region and are typically $5–$20 per cord.
    • Most permits allow up to 5 cords of firewood per household annually.

General Firewood Cutting Rules

  1. Designated Areas Only:
    • Permits specify the approved areas for cutting.
    • Cutting outside designated zones is illegal and subject to fines.
  2. What Can Be Cut:
    • Typically, only dead and downed trees are allowed.
    • Cutting standing dead trees is permitted only if specifically mentioned in the permit.
  3. Seasonal Restrictions:
    • Firewood cutting is restricted during fire seasons (usually summer and early fall).
    • In wildfire-prone regions, chainsaws may be prohibited during Red Flag warnings.
  4. Tools and Safety:
    • Chainsaws must have spark arrestors.
    • Carry water, a shovel, and a fire extinguisher for safety.

Area-Specific Regulations in California

Sierra National Forest

  • Permit Details:
    • Firewood permits are available from May to November.
    • Only dead trees and fallen logs are allowed.
  • Cutting Zones:
    • Maps are provided with the permit, outlining specific areas where cutting is permitted.
  • Application Link:
    Sierra National Forest Firewood Permits

Shasta-Trinity National Forest

BLM Public Lands in California

  • BLM-Specific Rules:
    • Firewood collection is generally allowed in designated areas.
    • Contact your local BLM office for maps and permits.
  • Permit Link:
    BLM California Firewood Permits

Invasive Species and Firewood Transport

California is strict about firewood movement to prevent the spread of invasive species like bark beetles and emerald ash borers.

  1. Movement Restrictions:
    • Firewood cannot be transported across quarantine zones.
    • Buy and use firewood locally to reduce pest risks.
  2. Pest-Free Certification:
    • Firewood must meet the state’s pest-free standards.

    More info: Don’t Move Firewood California

Enforcement and Penalties

  • Cutting firewood without a permit or violating the rules can result in:
    • Fines of up to $5,000.
    • Confiscation of tools and equipment.
    • Potential legal action.

Additional Resources for California Firewood Cutting

 

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