Christmas tree cutting permits in the Lake Tahoe Basin go on sale Nov. 18 with only 2,500 permits available on a first come, first serve basis, the U.S. Forest Service announced Thursday.

Permits cost $10 each (cash or check only, no credit cards) with a limit of two permits per family. Permit holders may choose from a variety of pine, fir or cedar in designated cutting areas.

Because of the popularity of this program, permits sell out quickly. Buy early for the best chance to obtain a permit. Provided permits are not sold out, the last day to purchase a permit is Friday, Dec. 20, 2013, and the last day to cut a tree is Dec. 24, 2013.

Christmas tree cutting permits are also available through the Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest, Carson Ranger District beginning Nov. 22 and lasting through Dec. 24 or until the 4,000 permits are sold. Go here for more information.

Cutting a Christmas tree offers a traditional holiday experience, while helping to thin the forest of excessive smaller diameter trees, which creates a healthier forest over time.

Permits will be sold in two locations:

— On the South Shore, permits will be sold at the Forest Supervisor’s office, 35 College Drive, South Lake Tahoe, Calif., beginning Monday, November 18, 2013. This office is open Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. until 4:30 p.m. For more information, call (530) 543-2694.

— On the North Shore, permits will be sold at the Incline Village Forest Service office, 855 Alder Ave., Incline Village, Nev., beginning Wednesday, November 20, 2013. This office is open Wednesday through Friday from 8 a.m. until 4:30 p.m. For more information, call (775) 831-0914. During winter weather driving conditions, call the Incline office to make sure it’s open.

Maps to designated cutting areas are provided at the time of purchase. Permit holders should follow permit guidelines for responsible collection, including respecting private property by not trespassing when entering or leaving National Forest cutting areas. Observe seasonal road closures and be prepared to walk in to the cutting area to find a tree. No off-road travel is allowed.

For more information, contact the Forest Supervisor’s office at (530) 543-2694, the Incline office at (775) 831-0914, or go here.