Deschutes and Ochoco National Forests to allow firewood collection until Nov. 30, 2026

BEND, Ore. (KTVZ) -- The firewood collection season for personal and commercial use will resume on the Deschutes and Ochoco National Forests and Crooked River National Grassland beginning May 1, 2026. The season will run through Nov. 30, 2026.

While personal use firewood permits are free, they are still required for collection. The public can obtain up to eight cords of wood annually for personal use, which cannot be sold. Vendors may charge a $2.50 processing fee per transaction for these free permits. This collection season applies only to National Forest system lands and does not include permits for land managed by the Prineville District Bureau of Land Management.

Permit holders must possess their permit and a copy of the 2026 Firewood Synopsis when collecting firewood. They are required to tag their loads. It is the permit holder's responsibility to review the synopsis to understand the specific cutting designations and available tree species in designated areas. It is prohibited to possess or remove illegally cut trees. Those interested in selling firewood must acquire a commercial permit directly from a Forest Service office. Permit holders must also follow all fire restrictions, which are available on the Forests' websites. A list of local vendors and the 2026 Firewood Synopsis are also accessible on the Deschutes and Ochoco National Forests websites.

Permits for the firewood collection season will be available at local vendors and Forest Service offices starting May 1, 2026.