For many families, cutting down the Christmas tree is as much a holiday ritual as baking cookies or hanging stockings.
And believe it or not, you don’t have to live in a snowy state to make this tradition happen. In Arizona, you can cut your own Christmas tree, thanks to special permits issued but the U.S. Forest Service. Families can head to spots like the Coconino, Prescott and Kaibab national forests.
The process is simple, and it helps overgrown forest areas, which is a plus for the environment. There are a few regulations, such as tree cutting is prohibited at trailheads and in campgrounds. Make sure you stay within the designated cutting areas specified on your permit and map.
Here’s how and where you can cut your own Christmas tree in Arizona.
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 does it cost to get a permit in Arizona?
A permit to cut a Christmas tree in an Arizona national forest costs $15.
Where can I cut down my own Christmas tree 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.
Permit sales are final, and no refunds are available if you are unable to use your permit.
Do you need a permit to cut down a tree in Arizona?
Yes, you need a permit in Arizona to cut down Christmas trees. Permits are available online or in person.
You can go online to recreation.gov. 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.
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.
Attach the permit to the tree immediately after cutting, and ensure it is visible during transport.
Cutting dates for 2025 begin on Nov. 14 and end at midnight Dec. 31.
How do you keep a Christmas tree alive longer?
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.
Reporting by Tiffany Acosta, Arizona Republic
