Firewood Cutting Regulations in Washington

Washington State offers abundant opportunities for firewood harvesting on both public and private lands. However, strict rules are in place to ensure sustainability and prevent the spread of invasive pests. Here’s a detailed guide to legal and responsible firewood cutting in Washington:

Firewood Cutting on Public Lands in Washington

1. Permit Requirement:
   • A firewood permit is required to cut wood on public lands managed by the U.S. Forest Service (USFS) or the Bureau of Land Management (BLM).
   • Permits are for personal use only and cannot be used for commercial purposes.
2. Where to Get Permits:
   • Permits can be obtained at local USFS ranger stations or BLM field offices. Some districts also offer permits online.
3. Permit Costs and Limits:
   • Permits generally cost $5 per cord, with most areas limiting individuals to 10 cords annually.
4. Application Links:
   • U.S. Forest Service – Pacific Northwest Region
   • BLM Washington Firewood Info

General Firewood Cutting Rules

1. Designated Cutting Areas:
   • Firewood cutting is only permitted in specific zones designated by your permit. Maps are provided with the permit.
2. What Can Be Cut:
   • Only dead and downed trees are allowed unless stated otherwise in the permit.
   • Cutting standing dead trees may require explicit approval.
3. Seasonal Restrictions:
   • Cutting seasons typically run from spring to late fall, depending on weather and fire risk levels.
   • Cutting may be restricted during high fire danger periods.
4. Safety Requirements:
   • Chainsaws must have spark arrestors.
   • Carry water, a shovel, and a fire extinguisher during cutting activities.

Area-Specific Regulations in Washington

Mount Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest

• Permit Details:
  • Permits allow for up to 6 cords of firewood per year.
  • Cutting is only permitted in designated areas, and maps are provided.
• Restrictions:
  • Cutting near water sources or in wildlife-sensitive areas is prohibited.
• More Info:
  Mount Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest Firewood Permits

Gifford Pinchot National Forest

• Permit Rules:
  • Permits are available seasonally for up to 6 cords per household.
  • Cutting is limited to marked areas to protect wildlife and habitats.
• More Info:
  Gifford Pinchot National Forest Permits

BLM Public Lands in Washington

• Rules:
  • Permits are required, and cutting is limited to dead or downed wood.
  • Designated cutting zones are strictly enforced.
• Details and Permits:
  BLM Washington Firewood Permits

Firewood Cutting on Private Lands in Washington

1. Landowner Permission:
   • Written permission from the landowner is required to cut firewood on private property.
   • Some timber companies sell permits for firewood cutting on their lands.
2. Prohibited Practices:
   • Cutting live trees without explicit permission is illegal.
   • Protected tree species may not be harvested, even with landowner approval.

Transporting Firewood in Washington

Washington has strict rules on transporting firewood to prevent the spread of invasive pests, such as emerald ash borers and gypsy moths.

1. Movement Restrictions:
   • Firewood cannot be transported across state lines or from quarantine zones without meeting treatment standards.
   • Most firewood should remain within 50 miles of where it was cut.
2. Heat-Treated Firewood:
   • If firewood needs to be moved, it must be heat-treated and labeled pest-free.

   More Info: Don’t Move Firewood – Washington

Penalties for Violations

Non-compliance with firewood regulations in Washington can result in:

• Fines of up to $5,000.
• Confiscation of tools and illegally harvested wood.
• Additional penalties for damaging natural resources.

Tips for Responsible Firewood Harvesting in Washington

1. Stick to Permit Guidelines:
   • Follow all rules outlined in your permit, including designated areas and seasonal restrictions.
2. Minimize Environmental Impact:
   • Leave stumps low and scatter debris to reduce visual and ecological disturbance.
3. Stay Updated:
   • Check for local advisories, fire bans, or pest-related quarantines before cutting or transporting firewood.

Resources for Firewood Cutting in Washington

• U.S. Forest Service – Pacific Northwest Region
• BLM Oregon-Washington Firewood Info
• Washington Department of Natural Resources
• Invasive Species Prevention in Washington

Always verify local regulations before cutting.