Firewood Cutting Regulations in North Dakota

North Dakota offers limited opportunities for firewood cutting on public lands, with most harvesting taking place on private property. The state enforces regulations to protect forests, grasslands, and ecosystems while preventing the spread of invasive pests. Here’s how to legally cut and transport firewood in North Dakota.

Firewood Cutting on Public Lands in North Dakota

1. Permit Requirement
   • Firewood cutting on public lands, such as areas managed by the North Dakota Forest Service (NDFS) or U.S. Forest Service (USFS), requires a permit.
   • Permits are typically issued for dead and downed wood only.
2. Designated Areas
   • Firewood cutting is allowed only in specific zones, such as Sheyenne National Grassland or designated state forest areas.
3. Where to Inquire
   • Contact the NDFS or Sheyenne National Grassland ranger district for permit availability.
   • North Dakota Forest Service
   • Sheyenne National Grassland Firewood Info
4. Permit Costs and Limits
   • Permit costs vary but are typically $10–$20 per cord, with an annual limit of 2–5 cords for personal use.

Firewood Cutting on Private Lands in North Dakota

1. Landowner Permission
   • Written permission from the landowner is required to harvest firewood on private property.
2. Timber Companies and Firewood Sales
   • Some private landowners and timber companies allow cutting of downed or storm-damaged trees for a fee.
3. Prohibited Practices
   • Cutting live trees without explicit permission is prohibited.

Transporting Firewood in North Dakota

North Dakota enforces transport restrictions to prevent the spread of invasive pests like emerald ash borers and pine beetles.

1. Movement Restrictions
   • Firewood must remain within the county or region where it was harvested unless certified as heat-treated and pest-free.
2. Buy Local, Burn Local
   • Use firewood sourced within 50 miles of your burning location to minimize pest risks.

Penalties for Violations

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

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

Tips for Responsible Firewood Harvesting in North Dakota

1. Verify Public Land Rules
   • Public land cutting opportunities are limited, so check regulations and permit requirements before planning your harvest.
2. Focus on Private Land Opportunities
   • Collaborate with private landowners for more convenient firewood access.
3. Minimize Environmental Impact
   • Scatter debris and avoid cutting near waterways or sensitive wildlife habitats.

Resources for Firewood Cutting in North Dakota

• North Dakota Forest Service
• Sheyenne National Grassland
• Invasive Species Rules – North Dakota

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