The Dixie National Forest announced that Christmas tree permits for the upcoming holiday season became available for purchase online through Recreation.gov on Oct. 8, 2026. The permit allows individuals to cut trees within designated areas of the forest, supporting both holiday traditions and forest health initiatives.
Permit Acquisition and Requirements
According to a press release from the Dixie National Forest issued on Oct. 6, 2026, the online permit process requires users to visit Recreation.gov and search specifically for Dixie National Forest Christmas Tree Permits. To complete a transaction, visitors must either log in to an existing Recreation.gov account or set up a new one.
While the permit grants permission to cut a tree, the Dixie National Forest advises all visitors to carefully review the overview and all need-to-know information before completing a purchase. Specific details regarding designated cutting areas, specific dates for cutting, and the specific types of tree species that are permitted for cutting are available through the official permit website.
Benefits to Forest Health
The Dixie National Forest highlighted that tree cutting serves a dual purpose by improving overall forest health. The permit system is designed to help thin out densely populated stands of small-diameter trees.
Local forest health experts have identified specific areas that would benefit from this thinning process. Removing these smaller trees helps larger trees grow more effectively and can create open areas that provide essential forage for local wildlife.
Every Kid Outdoors Initiative
The U.S. Forest Service is participating in the Every Kid Outdoors initiative, a nationwide effort to encourage conservation among younger generations. Under this program, fourth-grade students who complete the application process through the Every Kid Outdoors website are eligible for a free Christmas tree permit.
When using an Every Kid Outdoors pass or voucher, a $2.50 reservation fee will still be applied to the transaction. Students can use a physical paper pass or redeem it for a durable pass at selected Forest Service offices. The Dixie National Forest stated it hopes the initiative inspires young people in Southern Utah to visit the national forest.
Guidelines for Tree Selection
When selecting a tree, the Dixie National Forest instructs permit holders to consult the "Selecting Your Tree" guidelines to determine which species are available based on the specific District they are visiting.
Permit holders are also required to follow all road and motorized trail restrictions as outlined on the Motor Vehicle Use Map. For additional information, including contact details for local District offices and information on local vendors, visitors can access the Dixie Forest Products website.
Additional Resources
The Dixie National Forest provides several online resources for those planning a trip, including the Recreation.gov permit page featuring a map interface and a help center article titled "How Do I Purchase and Print a Christmas Tree Permit?" Additionally, the forest offers resources such as the "Cut a Tree for the Holidays from Your National Forest" article for further guidance.
