Arizona Christmas tree permits 2024: Here's where to cut your own tree
With the holiday season just around the corner, many people are deciding how to celebrate and decorate.
If you're considering the convenience of an artificial Christmas tree that you can use year after year, that's certainly a popular choice.
Another option is to embrace the old-fashioned tradition of cutting your Christmas tree. If that's an adventure you'd like to try, you're in luck. You can cut your own Christmas tree in all six Arizona national forests: Tonto, Prescott, Coconino, Apache-Sitgreaves, Kaibab and Coronado.
You'll need a permit before you head out. Here is everything to know about 2024 Arizona Christmas tree permits.
Can I cut my own Christmas tree in Arizona?
Yes. It's legal to cut your own Christmas tree in Arizona with a forest service permit.
How much is a Christmas tree permit in AZ?
A permit to cut a Christmas tree in an Arizona national forest costs $15.
How do I get a Christmas tree permit in Arizona?
Arizona Christmas tree permits are available online or in person.
"There are two ways to get a permit," said Michelle Williams, timber resource specialist for Tonto and Coronado national forests.
"You can go online to recreation.gov and get one there. All the forests in Arizona are available there. Or you can go into a ranger station or the supervisor's office in the Valley, which is on 24th Street and McDowell, and get a permit over the counter."
Cutting dates for 2024 begin on Nov. 14 and end at midnight Dec. 31.
Where can you cut down Christmas trees in Arizona?
You can purchase a permit to cut down a Christmas tree in designated areas of all six Arizona national forests: Apache-Sitgreaves, Coconino, Coronado, Kaibab, Prescott and Tonto. Your permit will be for a specific location in the forest you choose.
Your Christmas tree permit also allows you to collect an armload of green branches and some pinecones for decorations.
Cutting your own Christmas tree isn't just an adventure, it benefits the forest.
"It actually helps within the forest because we get a lot of overgrowth. So when you cut some, it's actually naturally thinning the forest," said Williams.
What areas are closed to Christmas tree cutting?
Christmas tree cutting is prohibited at trailheads and in campgrounds. Make sure you stay within the designated cutting areas specified on your permit and map.
Christmas tree permit regulations
Each Christmas tree permit allows the cutting of one tree, which must not exceed 10 feet in height or 6 inches in diameter at the stump, Williams said.
Attach the permit to the tree immediately after cutting, and ensure it is visible during transport.
Permit sales are final, and no refunds are available if you are unable to use yours.
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Safety tips for cutting your own Christmas tree
Before heading into the forest, check your destination's website and social media for road and site conditions. Check the weather at your destination as well.
If you're heading into snowy conditions, make sure your car's engine and tires are up to the task.
Dress warmly and bring essentials such as food, water, a first aid kit, a chainsaw and a shovel.
Park safely away from the road.
Avoid cutting trees during strong winds.
Always let someone know your plans. If you get stranded, stay with your group and vehicle, keeping a window open for ventilation.
How do you keep a Christmas tree alive?
To keep your Christmas tree alive and fresh throughout the holiday season, follow these tips :
Choose a fresh tree: Look for a tree with vibrant green needles that don't easily fall off when you run your hand along the branches.
Make a fresh cut: Trim about an inch off the bottom of the trunk before placing it in water. This helps the tree absorb water more effectively.
Use a proper stand: Ensure your tree stand holds enough water (at least one quart per inch of trunk diameter) and is stable.
Water daily: Check the water level daily and refill as needed to keep the base submerged. A tree can absorb a lot of water, especially in the first week.
Keep away from heat sources: Position the tree away from heat vents and direct sunlight, which can dry it out more quickly.
Maximize humidity: If possible, increase humidity around the tree by using a humidifier or placing a shallow pan of water nearby.
Avoid additives: Stick to plain water; commercial additives or home remedies like sugar or aspirin may not be effective and can harm the tree.
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