Permits are valid from March 31 of one year to March 31st of the next. Firewood permits authorize an individual to cut and remove dead down trees and logs from National Forest and BLM lands. There is a requirement in effect on the Lolo National Forest that firewood cutting, or related disturbance, is not allowed within 150 feet of any running stream, pond, lake, or wet areas to protect water quality and fish habitat. If one plans to sell the products, a commercial gathering permit needs to be obtained from the local Forest Service office. For personal use, fees are not generally charged depending on the amount taken.
Some areas have special restrictions.
Recently in the Northern Region of the Forest Service, new regulations came into effect for huckleberries, mushrooms, beargrass, and other products. For example, a permit is not required for recreational huckleberry picking up to 10 gallons per season. Commercial pickers must obtain a permit from the appropriate district. Many people call about getting teepee poles, fence rails and misc. These are classified as small timber sales and require a permit from the District's small sale administrator.