Many Alaska families enjoy heading into the woods each winter to harvest a Christmas tree. The Division of Forestry & Fire Protection helps to support this tradition by allowing residents to cut their own Christmas tree on unrestricted State of Alaska lands.
Maps and area guides are available for the Fairbanks–Delta region, the Kenai Peninsula, and the Mat-Su Valley here as well as the DNR Christmas Tree Cutting Page.
Statewide Guidelines
• One tree per household
• Personal use only
• Trees must be under 15 feet
• Cut whole trees. Please do not top
• Cut the stump as low as possible
• Protect young seedlings
• Respect private property and nearby homesTree cutting is not allowed in Alaska State Parks, Department of Transportation rights-of-way, Alaska Native lands, or other private property. Some boroughs or municipal areas also have restrictions. Please verify land ownership before you cut your tree. Read provided area maps.
Road and Travel Safety
Forest roads are not maintained by the Division of Forestry & Fire Protection. Deep snow, uneven surfaces, and industrial traffic are common in winter.
When traveling, bring:
• Tire chains
• Shovel
• Tow strap
• Warm clothing and emergency gear
Watch for logging trucks, follow posted signs, and do not block road access.
Area Specifics:
Fairbanks–Delta Region
• No cutting in the Bonanza Creek Experimental Forest, Zasada Road, or Rosie Creek Road
• No cutting in tree plantations
• More information: Fairbanks Area Office, 907-451-2600
Kenai Peninsula
For rules on other public lands, contact:
• Chugach National Forest: 907-743-9500
• Kenai National Wildlife Refuge: 907-262-7021
• Kenai Peninsula Borough: 907-714-2205
Mat-Su Valley
Cutting is allowed on unrestricted State land in the Matanuska Valley Moose Range and surrounding valleys. Additional cutting opportunities may exist on Chugach National Forest or Matanuska-Susitna Borough lands.
• Palmer Area Office: 907-761-6300
Caring for Your Spruce Tree
Alaska’s black and white spruce make excellent Christmas trees if handled with care.
• Try not to let the tree fall or drag across the snow to prevent brittle branch breakage.
• If possible, let your tree warm up in a garage or entryway before bringing it inside. This helps the branches relax and reduces needle loss.
• After warming, make a fresh cut 1–2 inches above the base and place it in water.
• Plain water works best, no additives are needed.
• Keep the tree stand full of water at all times.
• Set the tree away from heaters, fireplaces, or heat vents.
• A humidifier can help keep needles from drying out.
Contacts
For questions about tree cutting in your area, contact your local Division of Forestry & Fire Protection office or the DNR Public Information Centers:
Anchorage (907-269-8400)
Fairbanks (907-451-2705).
For media requests or additional guidance on tree selection and care, you may also contact: Stephen Nickel Mat-Su & Southwest Area Forester 907-761-6301 stephen.nickel@alaska.gov
Categories: Alaska DNR - Division of Forestry (DOF)
Alaska Wildland Fire Information 