The holiday season is a perfect excuse to get out into the mountains — and Plumas National Forest is making it easy. Christmas tree permits are on sale now for $10 each at local forest offices or online through Recreation.gov (go to Plumas National Forest Christmas Tree Permit). Households may buy up to two permits; each permit covers one tree and is valid through December 31, 2025. If you buy online you’ll pay a $2.50 reservation fee and must print the permit and display it on your dashboard while transporting the tree. Fourth graders with a valid Every Kid Outdoors pass can claim a free permit (a $2.50 reservation fee still applies when using the online option).A few rules to keep in mind: permits are valid only on Plumas National Forest lands — not on private, state, or other federal lands — and trees may not be cut in Wilderness Areas, active timber sales, developed recreation sites, or tree plantations.
If you prefer in-person service, permits are sold at ranger offices (call ahead to confirm hours and payment methods):
Beckwourth Ranger District
23 Mohawk Hwy, Blairsden
(530) 836-2574
Feather River Ranger District
875 Mitchell Ave, Oroville
(530) 534-6500
Forest Supervisor’s Office
159 Lawrence St., Quincy
(530) 283-2050
You can also visit the Plumas booth at “Sparkle on the Courthouse Lawn” in Quincy on Friday, Dec. 5 (5–8 p.m.) where permits will be sold (cash/check).
Cutting a tree is also a small act of stewardship: removing small-diameter trees helps reduce hazardous fuels and gives larger trees room to grow.
Plan ahead — check weather and road conditions, pack warm layers, water, emergency food, tire chains, shovel, saw or axe, tarp and rope, and a full tank of gas.
Stick to designated roads (mud can strand vehicles and damage resources), cut trees early in the season before snow blocks access, saw close to the ground leaving a minimal stump, and attach your permit where it will stay visible during transport.
To keep your tree fresh at home, trim an inch off the base and stand it in water in a cool, shaded spot, topping up the water daily.