The most wonderful time of the year begins Friday when the Tahoe National Forest begin issuing Christmas tree permits to households looking to put up a tree for the holiday season.

The majority of permits will be issued through the U.S. Forest Service’s website Recreation.gov and a limited number will be available at district offices for in-person purchases. The permitting process opens at 8 a.m. that Friday.

Permits are $10 (plus a $2.50 reservation fee) and are limited to two permits per household. The permits, including those for tree harvesting, can only be used in Tahoe National Forest until Dec. 31.

Fourth-grade students with an Every Kid Outdoors pass are eligible for a free Christmas tree permit. They can apply free in person at available district offices or online, which includes the $2.50 fee.

According to the Tahoe National Forest, the Christmas tree permit system provides recreation opportunities and helps to improve forest health.

“Removing small-diameter trees from densely populated stands helps other trees grow larger and can open areas that provide forage for wildlife and reduce wildfire risk. These small-diameter trees are often the desired Christmas tree size,” U.S. Forest Service spokeswoman Lauren Faulkenberry said in a news release.

The Forest Service encourages those applying for permits to review the guidelines and safety information for the best experience while harvesting a Christmas tree.

Nearby Eldorado National Forest will open its Christmas tree permit process today for the same price, though permit holders will be limited to just one tree.

“Any day you can be out enjoying your national forest is a great day,” said Eldorado forest supervisor Amy Reid. “Being able to create lifelong memories with your family and connect with nature is a bonus.”

Forest officials also suggest the following tips should be considered:

Off-road motor vehicle travel is not allowed

The Tahoe National Forest website says permit holders should be prepared to hike, ski or snowshoe to find their tree, and should bring a tape measure, saw or ax, tarp and rope to cut and transport their tree.

Trees must be cut at the base

Tahoe National Forest warns permit holders to not cut at the top of trees and leave the base still standing but rather cut the tree at the base and later trim down to the desired length.

Tree size limitations

Forest officials said there are limitations on tree sizes and species that are available for cutting, as provided to permit holders.

Permit holders are asked to review both requirements and the tree-cutting maps to ensure their selected tree meets guidelines and is located within forest boundaries, a Tahoe National Forest news release said.

Cut early

Although tree cutting is permitted through the end of December, forest officials recommend cutting early in the season before higher elevations become inaccessible due to snow and ice, officials said.

Trees should be placed in water as soon as possible because they begin to lose moisture as soon as they are cut. If properly stored, trees can stay fresh for several weeks.

Beware of inclement weather

Be prepared for unpredictable weather changes and cold conditions in higher elevations. Be sure to check weather and road conditions prior to departure.

Always ensure you have a full tank of gas, warm clothing, water, emergency food and tire chains.

For more information or to contact a Tahoe National Forest office, visit fs.usda.gov.

How to get a permit

To get a permit for a tree, visit the landing page for Tahoe National Forest or Eldorado National Forest. The “purchase” button will go active once applications are open.

Applicants can also visit the following ranger stations in person:

Placerville District Office: 100 Forni Road, Placerville, CA 95667; 530-622-5061

Amador District Office: 26820 Silver Drive Pioneer, CA 95666; 209-259-3774

Georgetown District Office: 7600 Wentworth Springs Road, Georgetown, CA 95634; 530-333-4312

Nevada City Supervisor’s Office: 631 Coyote St., Nevada City, CA 95959; 530-265-4531

American River District Office: 22830 Foresthill Road, Foresthill, CA 95631; 530-492-5631

Sierraville District Office: 317 S. Lincoln St., Sierraville, CA 96126; 530-994-3401

Truckee District Office: 10811 Stockrest Springs Road, Truckee, CA 96161; 530-587-3558

Yuba River District Office (by appointment only): 15924 Highway 49, Camptonville, CA 95922; 530-265-4531

Officials encourage in-person applicants to call ahead to ensure permits are still available.