The U.S. Forest Service Lake Tahoe Basin Management Unit will begin the sale of Christmas tree permits on Nov. 24.

Permits cost $10 each (cash or check only, no credit cards), with a limit of two permits per family. Permits must be purchased in person, are not transferable and are sold on a first-come, first-served basis.

Permit holders may choose from a variety of pine, fir or cedar in designated cutting areas. Permits are available for purchase until Dec. 19, but permits usually sell out before then.

The last day to cut a tree is Dec. 25.

Permits will be sold in two locations (both offices will be closed on Thanksgiving Day):

· Forest Supervisor’s office, 35 College Drive, South Lake Tahoe, Monday through Friday from 8am-4:30pm. For more information, call 530.543.2694.

· Incline Village Forest Service office, 855 Alder Ave., Incline Village, Wednesday through Friday from 8am-4:30pm. For more information, call 775.8310914. During winter weather driving conditions, call the Incline office to make sure it’s open.

Maps to designated cutting areas are provided at the time of purchase. Permit holders should follow permit guidelines for responsible collection, including respecting private property by not trespassing when entering or leaving National Forest cutting areas. Observe seasonal road closures and be prepared to walk in to the cutting area to find a tree. No off-road travel is allowed.