Oregon provides excellent opportunities for cutting firewood on both public and private lands, with clear regulations to promote sustainable forestry and prevent environmental damage. Here’s a detailed guide for legal and responsible firewood harvesting in Oregon:
Firewood Cutting on Public Lands in Oregon
- Permit Requirement:
- A permit is required for cutting firewood on public lands managed by the U.S. Forest Service (USFS) or the Bureau of Land Management (BLM).
- Permits are for personal use only, not for resale.
- Where to Get Permits:
- Permits can be obtained online or at local USFS or BLM offices.
- Availability is seasonal and may vary by forest or district.
- Permit Costs and Limits:
- Most permits cost around $5 per cord, with a typical limit of 4 cords per year per household.
- Application Link:
USFS Pacific Northwest Region Firewood Permits
BLM Oregon Firewood Information
General Firewood Cutting Rules in Oregon
- Designated Cutting Areas:
- Cutting is restricted to designated zones outlined in the permit.
- Maps of approved areas are provided with the permit.
- What Can Be Cut:
- Only dead and downed trees are allowed unless specified otherwise in the permit.
- Cutting standing dead trees is sometimes allowed but requires explicit approval.
- Seasonal Restrictions:
- Firewood cutting seasons typically run from May to November, depending on weather and fire danger levels.
- Cutting may be prohibited during high fire risk periods.
- Safety Requirements:
- Chainsaws must have spark arrestors.
- Carry firefighting tools, such as water, a shovel, and a fire extinguisher, especially during dry seasons.
Area-Specific Rules and Details
Mount Hood National Forest
- Permit Details:
- Permits allow up to 6 cords of firewood per household annually.
- Only specific areas are open for cutting; live trees and protected areas are off-limits.
- Application and Info:
Mount Hood Firewood Permits
Deschutes National Forest
- Cutting Rules:
- Only dead trees or downed logs are allowed.
- Firewood cutting is permitted in marked areas away from campgrounds and water sources.
- Application Link:
Deschutes Firewood Permits
BLM Public Lands in Oregon
- Rules:
- Permits are issued for designated zones.
- Cutting is often limited to fallen wood to preserve standing habitats.
- More Info:
BLM Oregon Firewood
Firewood Cutting on Private Lands in Oregon
- Landowner Permission:
- Cutting firewood on private property requires written permission from the landowner.
- Logging companies sometimes sell permits for firewood cutting on their lands.
- Harvesting Rules:
- Ensure you follow Oregon state regulations regarding tree species and debris disposal.
- Prohibited Activities:
- Cutting live trees on private lands without approval is illegal.
Transporting Firewood in Oregon
Oregon has strict regulations to prevent the spread of invasive pests like emerald ash borers and sudden oak death.
- Movement Restrictions:
- Firewood cannot be transported across state lines or quarantine zones unless it is heat-treated and labeled pest-free.
- Buy Local, Burn Local:
- To minimize pest spread, use firewood sourced within 50 miles of where it will be burned.
Learn more: Don’t Move Firewood – Oregon
Penalties for Violations
Non-compliance with Oregon’s firewood regulations can lead to:
- Fines of up to $1,000.
- Confiscation of equipment and harvested wood.
- Additional penalties for environmental damage.
Tips for Responsible Firewood Harvesting in Oregon
- Plan Ahead:
- Permits can sell out quickly in popular regions, so apply early.
- Follow Maps and Rules:
- Always stick to designated cutting zones and adhere to permit guidelines.
- Minimize Impact:
- Scatter leftover debris and avoid cutting near streams or wildlife habitats.
Resources for Firewood Cutting in Oregon
- U.S. Forest Service Pacific Northwest Region
- Bureau of Land Management – Oregon
- Invasive Species Rules – Oregon
Always verify regulations with local authorities before cutting.