(COLORADO) — With the snowy weather this week, you might be cozying up on the couch watching holiday movies and sipping hot cocoa and you just might be thinking about family traditions, like cutting down your very own Christmas tree this year.

Before you get those family plans in gear though, you’ll need to purchase a Christmas tree permit, which are now available online. The process is simple; just visit Recreation.gov, search for your favorite national forest, and purchase the permit online.

If this is your first year, no worries; each forest will provide cutting area maps and details about the types of trees that can be cut. The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Forest Service said cutting Christmas trees not only improves forest health during the holiday season and beyond, but also reduces wildfire risk.

“The permit system is designed to thin carefully chosen, densely populated, tree stands that will benefit from having some trees removed,” said Troy Heithecker, Regional Forester. “Cutting trees from designated areas will allow the remaining trees to grow larger while creating open areas that provide food for wildlife.”

Many national forests continue to sell permits at district offices, on site, or through local vendors, but the Forest Service warned that sale dates many vary by location, and added that people should check permit details, which may require permits to be printed and displayed when cutting trees.

Forest Service tips for cutting your own Christmas tree

Know your location and only cut from designated Forest Service areas.

Never cut on private lands.

Do not cut within 75 feet of roads, trails, or recreation sites.

Stay on public roads.

Do not top trees, take the whole tree.

Cut trunks no more than 6 inches from ground and 6 inches in diameter.

Watch the forecast – mountain weather can change very quickly.

Traction devices or four-wheel drive vehicles are recommended in some areas.

Carry a shovel, flashlight, blanket, extra food and water.

Remember that cell phones may not work in remote areas.

Pack out all your trash.

A bonus this year, too, according to the Forest Service, “Fourth graders with an Every Kid Outdoors pass are eligible for a free Christmas tree permit and can apply by entering the pass or voucher number at the time of purchase.”

For more information, visit recreation.gov/tree-permits.