Those who enjoy the tradition of cutting their own Christmas trees may face an unexpected roadblock this year.

The U.S. Forest Service is not allowing the Craig Chamber of Commerce to sell permits this year as it had in years past.

“It’s been a custom in this area for people to go cut their own,” Chamber information specialist JoAnn Quade said. “It means 100 miles roundtrip for people to go get (a permit).”

The closest location to buy a permit is at the forest service office, 925 Weiss Drive, in Steamboat Springs. They cost $10.

Craig residents could then find and cut their own Christmas tree in Routt or Medicine Bow national forests, except in wilderness areas. Regulations for cutting trees are included with each permit.

But those who are looking for fresh trees with fewer hassles can shop at one of the two locations in Craig.

The Lions Club will hold its annual Christmas tree fund-raiser in Kmart’s parking lot starting Monday. Chairman Marvin Pearson said he will offer about 200 Scotch pines, Canaan firs and Douglas firs between 5 and 10 feet tall.

The Lions Club will be selling trees from 1:30 to 8 p.m. Monday through Friday, 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Saturday and 1:30 to 5 p.m. Sunday.

Tunies & Such Nursery and Landscaping owner Bob Meckley said he is getting his trees this weekend and also hopes to start selling them Monday.

He currently has about 20 balsam and piñon trees and is expecting an order of 50 noble, Douglas, grand and Fraser firs on Sunday.

In mid-December, he will receive another shipment of about 50.

“They’re all good trees,” he said. “They’re all good for the house.”

He said his trees range from 4 to 13 feet tall and have a range of prices as well.

He also sells a number of accessory items, such as a mess-free tube to water the tree and stands.

He gives away a white plastic tree skirt and clean-up bag with each tree purchase.

“Plus we have free delivery in the Craig area,” Meckley said.

He said the most important tips he has for fresh trees are keeping them away from heat sources and making sure they have enough water.

Kmart Assistant Manager Laura Foland said safety is one of the biggest reasons to buy artificial trees they have for sale.

The artificial tress at Kmart range from 2 feet to 8 feet tall and are offered in pre-lighted and fiber optic models.

“Real trees tend to dry out,” she said.

“These aren’t as messy, and you can use them year after year.”