Firewood Program

Background

The Benton County Natural Areas, Parks and Events Department issues permits to allow the general public to collect/cut firewood from designated locations within county park properties. Historic logging and ongoing storm damage, insects and other environmental factors can leave Douglas fir, Oregon white oak and other tree hazards within many park locations across the County. Benton County helps address these current and future issues through the Firewood Program within county natural areas and parks.

Permitting Process

• Natural Areas, Parks and Events staff and managers mark locations and/or consolidate areas where firewood collecting/cutting is allowed. No felling of trees is allowed.  All wood available is felled/piled by parks staff or contractors in safe access locations.
• Interested citizens should complete and submit a Special Use Permit (available for download as a PDF below).
  Applicant provides:
  •  License plate number and vehicle description
  •  Phone contact (cell phone preferred)
  • Desired date(s) for firewood cutting/collection
• Benton County Natural Areas, Parks and Events staff will provide information on where and how to collect on the applicant’s approved day(s).  Any violations of permit will result in loss of permit and possible legal action.
• Applicant pays a $15 daily permit, allowing them to cut/collect for one full day in designated area.
• Follow up by staff will occur to confirm proper collection.
• At the end of the fiscal year, review and updates of program will occur.

Submit Your Permit Request

If you would like to learn more about the Benton County Firewood Cutting Program, please contact the Natural Areas, Parks, and Events Office at (541) 766-6871.

Supporting Documents

• Special Use Permit (fillable, download form)
• Benton County Firewood Program Overview