Firewood Cutting Regulations in Pennsylvania

/ State-by-State Firewood Cutting Guidelines / By

Pennsylvania provides opportunities for firewood harvesting on both private and public lands, with regulations designed to protect natural resources and prevent the spread of invasive species. Here’s a comprehensive guide to legally cutting and transporting firewood in the state:

Firewood Cutting on Public Lands in Pennsylvania

  1. Permit Requirement:
    • Cutting firewood on public lands managed by the Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR) or the U.S. Forest Service requires a permit.
    • Permits are typically for dead and downed wood only, not live trees.
  2. Designated Areas:
    • Firewood cutting is restricted to specific zones within state forests or federal lands.
    • Maps indicating approved areas are provided with the permit.
  3. Permit Availability:
    • Permits are available seasonally from local DCNR offices or U.S. Forest Service ranger stations.
  4. Cost and Limits:
    • Permit fees and limits vary but typically allow up to 5 cords per household annually.

    More info: Pennsylvania DCNR Firewood Info

Firewood Cutting on Private Lands in Pennsylvania

  1. Landowner Permission:
    • Written permission from the landowner is required to cut firewood on private property.
  2. Timber Companies and Firewood Rights:
    • Some timber companies sell firewood cutting rights, often at a per-cord or per-acre rate.
  3. Prohibited Practices:
    • Cutting live trees without specific approval from the landowner is illegal.
    • Harvesting protected or endangered tree species is prohibited.

Transporting Firewood in Pennsylvania

Pennsylvania has strict rules on transporting firewood to limit the spread of invasive pests like the spotted lanternfly and emerald ash borer.

  1. Movement Restrictions:
    • Firewood must stay within the county or region where it was cut unless certified as pest-free.
    • Quarantine zones for invasive pests restrict the movement of untreated firewood.
  2. Heat-Treated Firewood:
    • Only heat-treated, pest-free firewood can be transported across county or state lines.
  3. Buy Local, Burn Local:
    • Always use firewood from within 50 miles of your burning location.

    Learn more: Don’t Move Firewood – Pennsylvania

Penalties for Violations

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

  • Fines ranging from $300 to $5,000, depending on the severity of the violation.
  • Confiscation of illegally transported or harvested firewood.
  • Additional penalties for causing environmental damage or spreading pests.

Tips for Responsible Firewood Harvesting in Pennsylvania

  1. Follow Permit Guidelines:
    • Stick to the designated cutting areas and rules outlined in your permit.
  2. Target Dead or Downed Trees:
    • Focus on collecting wood that is already dead or fallen to minimize environmental impact.
  3. Stay Informed:
    • Check for quarantine updates or pest-related advisories before cutting or transporting firewood.

Firewood for Sale in Pennsylvania

If you cannot cut firewood legally, purchasing from certified suppliers is a reliable option. Look for:

  • Heat-treated firewood certified as pest-free.
  • Local suppliers within 50 miles of your home.

Resources for Firewood Cutting and Transport in Pennsylvania

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

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