For less than $10, you can harvest your own Christmas tree from the Ocala National Forest.

The USDA Forest Service started selling Christmas tree permits this week. Starting Friday, permit holders will be able to cut down one sand pine tree to take home.

"It's just a fun experience for individuals or a family to come out and cut their own tree. I think it's a great part of the Christmas experience," said Deputy District Ranger Mike Gosse at the Ocala National Forest.

Gosse says allowing people to cut the trees helps the rangers clear out areas of the forest where there are too many.

About 300 permits were sold last year. Anyone can buy a permit for $7, and you can buy them in person or through the mail between now and Dec. 24.

Permit holders will receive directions and maps to the three designated tree-cutting areas.

"We recommend you bring some safety goggles or eye protection with you before you start cutting a tree,” Gosse said. “Wear some gloves and bring a sharp saw."

Deputy Gosse says to cut the tree at the base, leaving no more than a 6-inch stump.

"Just put your index finger on the ground and put your thumb up as far as it goes so you can cut the tree right," Gosse said.

The U.S. Forest Service is issuing permits in person and through the mail through Thursday, Dec. 24.

Permits may be purchased in person Monday through Friday from 7:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. at either the Lake George Ranger District office, located about 20 miles east of Ocala at 17147 East Highway 40, or the Seminole Ranger District Office located at 40929 State Road 19, Umatilla. 

To receive a permit through the mail, send a personal check or money order payable to the USDA Forest Service at:

Seminole Ranger District Office
40929 State Road 19
Umatilla, Fla. 32784

Fourth graders, or children ages 9-11 can get a free Christmas tree permit if they go online and print a certificate from the “Every Kid in a Park” program.

For additional information, please call the Lake George Ranger District office at 352-625-2520 or the Seminole Ranger District office at 352-669-3153. The map below marks both locations.