For Immediate Release: September 7, 2023
Contact: Sintia Kawasaki-Yee, Chief of Communications
SEQUOIA AND KINGS CANYON NATIONAL PARKS, Calif – Surplus wood is currently available to the public by permit in Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks. Firewood permits are free, but you must obtain your permit before wood can be removed. Permit holders may take up to six cords per family per year. Firewood is available on a first-come, first-served basis until the supply is gone or December 31, 2023.
Firewood is currently available in the following locations:
Dorst woodlot in Sequoia National Park – For a permit, contact Jody Davis at jody_davis@nps.gov.
Grant woodlot in Kings Canyon National Park – For a permit, contact Anna Nicks at anna_nicks@nps.gov.
Permits must be displayed at all times. The cutting and removal of wood is permitted seven days a week, during daylight hours only. Permits are only valid for what can be hauled. Wood cannot be reserved.
Visitor safety and the protection of park resources during woodcutting operations is the priority of the National Park Service. Cutting or collection of any trees or wood other than what is identified in the permit and located in approved woodlots is prohibited. All equipment must be in good working order, and the use of proper personal protective equipment, such as leather gloves, eye protection, and chaps is strongly encouraged. It is recommended that an additional person be present while the permit holder is cutting wood to act as a spotter and to assist with loading. Each chainsaw must be equipped with a spark arrester, and exhaust systems must be in good repair. Permit holders are required to keep a serviceable round point shovel at least 46 inches long and a UL-approved fire extinguisher (two-pound dry chemical or one-pound foam type –ABC or greater) within 25 feet of where saws are being operated.
This wood is available due to widespread tree mortality in the parks. These trees were deemed to be potential hazards to visitors or property.
Permits are only valid in Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks, not in Sequoia National Forest or Giant Sequoia National Monument.
