Moving uncertified firewood out of several counties in Northern Illinois is prohibited due to a spongy moth infestation and quarantine in those areas.
To prevent the spread of harmful forest pests, the state of Illinois strongly urges that firewood be produced, distributed, sold, and burned locally. They also strongly recommend that campers burn all their firewood before leaving their campsite.
The following additional firewood information applies to Illinois forests, parks, and protected areas:
- Firewood is not permitted on DNR managed properties if it was sourced from greater than 50 miles from the site, or if it came from out-of-state unless it is certified, heat-treated firewood.
- National and State Forest areas in Illinois often allow firewood gathering around the campground, however, a permit may be required. Ask forest staff for additional information.
Campgrounds often have their own firewood policies (e.g., outside firewood is not allowed at Cook County Forest Preserve). Find out the rules at your destination before traveling with firewood. Many states have laws prohibiting the movement of firewood across their borders as well; see the firewood map for the rules in other areas before taking any firewood out of Illinois.
This summary is accurate to the best of DMF staff abilities as of February 2026.
Illinois Web Resources:
- Firewood Regulations, IL Department of Agriculture (IDOA)
- Illinois Invasive Species, IL Department of Natural Resources (DNR)
- Camping Regulations (firewood rule linked under Use of State Parks, Admin Rule Sec 110.60 e)
- Firewood Hitchhikers, University of Illinois, Cooperative Extension Article, 2022
- Morton Arboretum Tree and Plant Care Resources
- Insect Pests, IDOA
- Emerald Ash Borer, IDOA
- Spongy Moth North America Quarantine Map, USDA APHIS
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