New Hampshire, known for its beautiful forests, provides plenty of opportunities for firewood cutting. However, there are specific rules to follow whether you’re cutting on public lands or private property. Understanding these guidelines helps ensure that you harvest firewood sustainably and legally.
Firewood Cutting on Public Lands
The New Hampshire Division of Forests and Lands manages firewood cutting on state lands. While public opportunities exist, you’ll need a permit to collect wood from these areas.
- How to Get a Permit
Firewood cutting permits are available through the Division of Forests and Lands or specific state parks and forests. Contact your local forestry office for information about availability and guidelines. You can learn more here: New Hampshire Division of Forests and Lands. - What’s Allowed
Permits usually allow for cutting dead and downed trees. Live or standing trees are typically off-limits unless explicitly stated in the permit. - Seasonal Restrictions
Firewood collection on public lands is often seasonal. Some areas may close during high fire-risk periods or to protect local wildlife habitats.
Firewood Cutting on Private Lands
Most firewood in New Hampshire comes from private lands. Many landowners, especially those managing large properties or timber operations, allow cutting with the proper permissions.
- Obtain Written Permission
Written landowner permission is mandatory before cutting firewood on private property. This agreement helps avoid disputes and ensures that you follow the landowner’s guidelines. - Storm-Damaged and Invasive Trees
Landowners often welcome help removing storm-damaged or invasive trees like buckthorn, which can double as excellent firewood. - Check with Timber Companies
Timber companies sometimes sell permits for firewood cutting, especially after logging operations. These permits often allow access to leftover wood or debris.
Transporting Firewood
New Hampshire has strict regulations for transporting firewood to prevent the spread of invasive species like emerald ash borers and Asian longhorned beetles.
- Keep It Local
Firewood should remain within a 50-mile radius of where it was harvested. Transporting firewood long distances can spread pests that threaten local forests. - Crossing State Lines
If you plan to bring firewood into or out of New Hampshire, it must be heat-treated and certified pest-free. More details are available here: Firewood Transport Rules.
Penalties for Violations
Failing to follow firewood cutting or transport regulations in New Hampshire can lead to:
- Fines ranging from $100 to $1,000
- Confiscation of illegally harvested or transported firewood
- Additional penalties for environmental damage
Tips for Responsible Firewood Cutting
- Plan Ahead: Permits for public lands can be limited, so secure them early.
- Collaborate with Landowners: Many private landowners offer firewood cutting opportunities, especially for clearing storm damage.
- Transport Safely: Keep firewood local to avoid spreading invasive pests and breaking state regulations.
- Use Proper Gear: Safety gear like gloves, boots, and a chainsaw with a spark arrestor is essential.
360 Key Takeaways
- Public Land Permits Are Limited: Firewood cutting on public lands requires a permit, typically for dead and downed trees only.
- Private Lands Are Key: Most firewood comes from private lands, where written permission is required.
- Keep It Local: Avoid transporting untreated firewood over long distances to protect forests from invasive pests.
- Follow the Rules: Violations can lead to fines and confiscation of wood.