Albuquerque, NM – November 20, 2025 –– Christmas tree permits for the Cibola National Forest are available to purchase online through Recreation.gov and in-person for the Magdalena, Mountainair and Mt. Taylor Ranger Districts. Details about designated cutting areas, dates, and types of trees that may be cut can be found at Cibola National Forest Christmas Tree Permit.

To purchase a Christmas tree permit online for the Magdalena, Mountainair or Mt Taylor Ranger Districts, visit  www.recreation.gov/tree-permits  and search for the Cibola National Forest Christmas Tree Permits. It is important to carefully read the overview and need-to-know information prior to purchasing the permit. Visitors will also need to set up or log in to a Recreation.gov account to complete the transaction.

For in person Christmas tree permit sales at the Cibola Supervisor's Office, Magdalena, Mountainair and Mt Taylor Ranger Districts visit www.fs.usda.gov/r03/cibola/offices  for current permit sales hours.

Cutting period for permit holders will be from Thanksgiving Day, Nov. 27th thru Dec. 31st. Each permit is good for one Christmas tree, two trees per household may be purchased. The cost is $10.00 for up to a 10-foot tree, $12.00 for up to a 12-foot tree and $15.00 for up to a 15-foot tree. The maximum height allowed is 15 feet. Park only where allowed and recognize all day-use fees that may apply at certain recreation sites.

Fourth graders with an Every Kid Outdoors pass are eligible for a free Christmas tree permit and can apply by entering the pass or voucher number when purchasing a permit (note: a $2.50 reservation fee will be applied when purchasing online).

Cutting a Christmas tree also improves forest health. The permit system helps thin densely populated stands of small-diameter trees. Local forest health experts identify areas that benefit from thinning trees that tend to be the perfect size for Christmas trees. Removing these trees in designated areas helps other trees grow larger and can open areas that provide forage for wildlife.

For more information, visit these online resources:

Recreation.gov Christmas Tree Permit page with map interface 

Help Center article "How Do I Purchase and Print a Christmas Tree Permit?" 

Cut a Tree for the Holidays from Your National Forest article 

Every Kid Outdoors Fourth Grade Pass program