Licensed Timber Operators (LTOs)
Licensed Timber Operators have three different types of licenses depending on the kind of timber operations they are authorized to conduct. Licenses which begin with the letter "A" authorize the licensee to conduct any type of operations. Those licenses which begin with the letter "B" restrict the licensee to only the removal of minor forest products such as firewood and Christmas trees. And, licenses which begin with the letter "C" restrict the licensee to only conduct timber operations on their own property only.
Commercial License (type “A”): requires completion of a 2-day LTO Training Class, verification of at least 3,000 hours of work experience in at least two different areas of timber operations, valid proof of insurance, a completed application, and a fee payment of $125.00.
Limited License (type “B”): requires completion of a 2-day LTO Training Class, completed application, and a fee payment of $60.00.
Restricted License (type “C”): requires completion of a 2-day LTO Training Class, a completed application with the “Landowner Exemption” section signed and dated, and a fee payment of $125.00
California State Law requires that any person who cuts and removes forest trees in order to sell the logs, or to develop a building site on forest covered lands, must be a Licensed Timber Operator. Landowners must obtain a permit from the Department of Forestry and Fire Protection prior to allowing any cutting or removal to occur. (See Forest Practice for more information). In some cases, a Registered Professional Forester will be needed to complete the permit application. (See: RPF/CRM Rosters).
calfire.ltoprogram@fire.ca.gov
(916) 653-7211 or (916) 709-5734