For many, selecting and cutting down a Christmas tree is a cherished tradition. That tradition continues this year.

The Pikes Peak Ranger District is now offering tree-cutting permits and has issued guidelines for those intending to do so.

Trees may be cut on National Forest System lands northwest of Woodland Park in the North Divide area and northwest of Woodland Park off Forest Service Roads 339 and 342. The forest service encourages permit purchasers to print and use the available map. Signs will also be posted.

The permits can be obtained in person at the ranger office located at 601 South Weber in Colorado Springs through Dec. 17. Permits can also be purchased online at https://www.recreation.gov/tree-permits/49f7193c-e64e-11ea-a244-5e6d4b9f6262/order.

The cost is $20 per tree with a limit of five per family) for the Pike National Forest. Trees may be cut until Dec. 17.

The Pikes peak Ranger District offered the following guidelines:

• You may cut a tree up to 15 feet tall or 6 inches in diameter at ground level.

• Any species of tree may be cut, however cutting Bristlecone Pine is not recommended. This is due to their sappy nature, which is both messy and can be a fire hazard.

• If snow is on the ground, remove it from around the stump so you can accurately measure the stump and tree height. Trees must be cut within 6 inches of the ground.

• Choose a tree from a densely forested area, which will give the remaining trees more space to grow.

• Take the whole tree. Do not remove the top of the tree; cut down and utilize the entire tree and don’t leave a high stump.

Where to Cut Your Christmas Tree

• Do not cut on private land, in Wilderness areas, designated campgrounds, or existing tree plantations.

• Do not cut trees in or within 200 feet of any developed areas, including Campgrounds, Picnic Areas, Recreation Areas, Trailheads, Scenic Overlooks and Administrative Sites.

• Christmas tree cutting is prohibited in Timber Sale areas. Do not cut any tree marked with colored paint, flagging or signs.

• Do not cut trees within 100 feet of any waterway, forest road or trail.

• Maps showing public and private land boundaries are available online and at district offices.