Sonora, CA…The Stanislaus National Forest will offer Christmas tree permits to purchase through Recreation.gov beginning Saturday, October 10, 2026, with harvesting available beginning Nov. 27, 2026. For $20 per tree, permit holders may cut up to two trees per permit.

Details about designated cutting areas, dates, and types of trees that may be cut may be found here .

To purchase a Christmas tree permit, visit Recreation.gov and search for Stanislaus National Forest Christmas Tree Permits. It is important to carefully read the overview and need-to-know information prior to purchasing the permit. Visitors will also need to set up or log in to a Recreation.gov account to complete the transaction.

Fourth graders with Every Kid Outdoors pass are eligible for a free Christmas tree permit and can apply by entering the pass or voucher number when purchasing a permit (note: a $2.50 reservation fee will be applied). 

Cutting a Christmas tree also improves forest health. The permit system helps thin densely populated stands of small-diameter trees. Local forest health experts identify areas that benefit from thinning trees that tend to be the perfect size for Christmas trees. Removing these trees in designated areas helps other trees grow larger and can open areas that provide forage for wildlife. 

For more information, visit these online resources: 

• Recreation.gov Christmas Tree Permit page with map interface  

• Help Center article “How Do I Purchase and Print a Christmas Tree Permit?”  

• Cut a Tree for the Holidays from Your National Forest article  

• Every Kid Outdoors Fourth Grade Pass program 

Any questions or concerns should be directed to Forest Public Affairs Officer, Benjamin Cossel: benjamin.cossel@usda.gov or 209.288.6261.