Black Hills National Forest

Cutting a Christmas Tree on the Black Hills National Forest

Christmas Tree Brochure

Kinds of Trees Available

Ponderosa pine is noted for its full shape and long, graceful needles. It grows almost everywhere in the Hills.

Spruce grows at higher elevations and on wetter, north facing slopes and drainage bottoms. It has a classic tapered form and short needles that allow for easy stringing of lights and ornaments.

Juniper is a shorter tree found at lower elevations in the southern and western Hills. Many people like its full shape and blue-green color.

Purchasing a Permit

You need a permit for each tree you cut. Each permit costs $10 and can be purchased at all area Forest Service offices, and some private businesses.

You may purchase a tree permit by mail. Make your check payable to USDA Forest Service and send it to the following address:

Black Hills National Forest
1019 North 5th Street
Custer, SD 57730

If you include a stamped return envelope, we will send your permit back the same day we receive the payment.

Your tree is for personal use only and is not to be sold. All tree permits expire December 31 of the year purchased; the Forest does not refund money for unused permits.

Safety in the Woods

Dress for bad weather and wear bright colors during the fall hunting season. Remember that road and weather conditions can suddenly change for the worse, so you may need tire chains or 4-wheel drive. Do not drive off-road unless you have a clear view of the ground. Be aware that off-road travel is restricted in some areas. Park so other vehicles can safely pass.

Cutting Guidelines

A Christmas tree may be cut anywhere in the National Forest with the following exceptions:

• Active timber sales
• Campgrounds, picnic areas, and other administrative sites
• Black Hills Experimental Forest
• Black Elk Wilderness
• Beaver Park near Sturgis
• Spearfish Canyon

Setting up your Tree

Store your tree in a bucket of water in a cool place until you are ready to move it indoors. Once it is in your home, display the tree away from fireplaces, stoves, or heating vents and make sure it is well watered.

Disposing of your Tree

Do not dump your tree or any other trash on public lands. Some landfills do not accept trees. You may want to use the needles and twigs for mulch and the larger pieces for firewood. Consider donating your tree for wildlife or fish habitat improvement.

Contact Us

Additional information may be obtained by contacting your nearest Forest Service office.

US Forest Service, Black Hills National Forest
Website comments? Please let us know.
Last modified September 26, 2008