WILLIAMS — With early forecasts signaling a potentially severe winter across northern Arizona, the Kaibab National Forest is encouraging visitors to obtain their personal‑use fuelwood permits and gather their wood as soon as possible.
Snow and winter storms can arrive quickly, and once conditions deteriorate, many wood‑gathering areas become difficult or impossible to access. Planning ahead now helps ensure both safe access and plenty of time to gather wood before winter weather sets in.
Paid permits cost $20 for 10 cords with an annual limit of 20 cords, and are available at all three districts – Williams, Tusayan, and North Kaibab. Free permits are available for the Tusayan and Williams ranger districts. Because operating schedules may vary from day to day, visitors are encouraged to contact their local ranger station to confirm permit availability before traveling, especially if coming from long distances.
Permit holders are reminded to review all terms and conditions before heading out. The physical permit must be on hand while gathering wood (digital copies or photos are not valid), and the permittee name must match the person collecting wood.
When gathering wood, permittees should take standard safety precautions and be prepared for rapidly changing weather and road conditions.
Permit details, downloadable maps, district-specific guidance, and other information can be found on the Kaibab National Forest website at www.fs.usda.gov/r03/kaibab/permits/personal-use-firewood-permits.
