Ohio Adm.Code 1501:3 | Ohio Administrative Code 1501:3 — Department of Natural Resources | Division of Forestry

Chapter 1501:3-1 General Provisions

Ohio Adm.Code 1501:3-1-01 Definitions.

As used in Chapters 1501:3-1 to 1501:3-9 of the Administrative Code:

(A) "Authorized agent" means any individual employed by the chief of the division of forestry and designated to be responsible for the supervision of the operation, protection, maintenance and management of land(s) or program(s) under administration of the division.

(B) "Camping" means utilization of any piece of equipment for sleeping in or upon including but not limited to a sleeping bag, hammock, station wagon, car, van, motor home, bus, trailer, tent, tarp, truck, house vehicle, pickup camper, or watercraft, for the purpose of occupying a portion of state land or water during the hours of darkness for transient and temporary outdoor living.

(C) "Campground" means an area designated and provided with facilities for camping. It may or may not have designated campsites.

(D) "Campsite" means:

(1) An area within a campground which has been designated for occupancy by a camper;

(2) Or in a campground not having designated campsites, the area occupied by a camper.

(E) "State forests" means any area established and administered pursuant to section 1503.03 of the Revised Code or any other area administered by the division of forestry.

(F) "Person" means any individual, firm, partnership, corporation, company, association, or any combination of individuals, and includes any agent, trustee, executor, receiver, assignee, or any other representative thereof.

(G) "Snowmobile" as used in these rules shall have the same meaning as set forth in section 4519.01 of the Revised Code.

(H) "All-purpose vehicle" as used in these rules shall have the same meaning as set forth in section 4519.01 of the Revised Code.

(I) "Off highway motorcycle" as used in these rules has the same meaning as set forth in section 4519.01 of the Revised Code.

(J) "Utility vehicle" as used in these rules has the same meaning as set forth in section 4501.01 of the Revised Code.

(K) "Bicycle" as used in these rules has the same meaning as set forth in section 4501.01 of the Revised Code.

(L) "Motorcycle" as used in these rules has the same meaning as set forth in section 4501.01 of the Revised Code.

(M) "Special area" means any area, other than roads or trails, whereon snowmobiles or all-purpose vehicles may be operated pursuant to the provisions of Chapter 4519. of the Revised Code and the rules adopted thereunder.

(N) "Designated area" means any location, place, site, facility, zone or space identified by rule by the chief or by an official map made available at the office of the chief or by on-site signs.

(O) "Meeting" or "event" means an assembly, gathering, contest or competition involving a number of participants and/or spectators which significantly affects public use and protection of lands or facilities of the division.

(P) "Primitive camping" means any of the following camping activities at a state forest: backpack trail, hunter, park and pack, all purpose vehicle, roadside and horse camps with no potable water or no electricity provided.

(Q) "Special use permit" means written authorization containing terms and conditions that is issued by the chief or authorized agent, pursuant to an application and fee payment in the manner and form specified.

(R) "Special activity" means any action requiring waiver of rules, special provisions, or other consideration in order to be conducted.

(S) "Threatened species" and "endangered species" have the same meaning as established in rule 1501:18-1-01 of the Administrative Code.

(T) "Class 1 electric bicycles" as used in these rules has the same meaning as set forth in section 4511.01 of the Revised Code.

Last updated August 28, 2026 at 8:14 AM

History

Effective: August 28, 2026
Promulgated Under: 119.03

Ohio Adm.Code 1501:18-1-01

As used in rules 1501:18-1-01 to 1501:18-2-05 of the Administrative Code:

(A) "Commercial purposes" means with intent to sell or trade for gain or profit.

(B) "Commercially grown" means grown under cultivation in tilled plots or in a greenhouse.

(D) "Endangered species" means a native Ohio plant species whose natural population(s) are in immediate danger of extirpation from Ohio, and/or any federal endangered plant species in Ohio.

(E) "Chief" means chief of the division of natural areas and preserves.

(F) "Federal endangered species" means all species native to this state which are listed as endangered on the United States list of endangered and threatened wildlife and plants pursuant to the Endangered Species Act of 1973, 87 Stat. 884, 16 U.S.C. 1531, as amended.

(G) "Federal threatened species" means all species native to this state which are listed as threatened on the United States list of endangered and threatened wildlife and plants pursuant to the Endangered Species Act of 1973, 87 Stat. 884, 16 U.S.C. 1531, as amended.

(H) "Native habitat" means the environment in which a species could exist as a natural population.

(I) "Native species" means a species which, by accepted scientific evidence, was present in Ohio immediately prior to European exploration and settlement.

(J) "Natural population" means one or more plants of a single species which, by lack of contrary evidence, were apparently established in a given area through dispersal by natural means, excluding dispersal by humans, human transportation systems, or planting by humans.

(K) "Occurrences" means sites or locations recorded in the natural heritage program data base which are no more than 20 years old.

(L) "Person" means any individual, firm, partnership, corporation, company, association, or any combination of individuals, or any employee, agent, or officer thereof.

(M) "Plant" means any member of the plant kingdom, including but not limited to: roots; stems, including bulbs, corms, tubers, rhizomes, stolons, and other stem forms; leaves; flowers; fruits; cones; seeds; spores; and gametophytes.

(N) "Species" means a species, subspecies or variety.

(O) "Threatened species" means a native Ohio plant species likely to become an endangered species in Ohio within the foreseeable future, and/or any federal threatened plant species in Ohio not on the state endangered species list.

(P) "Wild plant" means an individual member of a natural plant population.

Last updated January 4, 2024 at 9:09 AM

History

Effective: September 24, 1990
Promulgated Under: Ch 119.

Ohio Adm.Code 1501:3-1-02 Notice of public hearing to adopt, amend or rescind rules.

(A) Public notice of hearings to be conducted by the division of forestry shall be advertised in the register of Ohio. In addition to public notice given in the register of Ohio, the division may give whatever other notice it reasonably considers necessary to ensure notice constructively is given to all persons who are subject to or affected by the proposed rule, amendment or rescission.

(B) Said notice shall be given at least thirty days, but not more than sixty days, prior to the hearing. The notice shall state the division's intention to consider adopting, amending or rescinding rules; shall include a synopsis or full text of the proposed rules, amendments or rules to be rescinded or a general statement of the subject matter to which such proposed rules relate; and shall enumerate the date, time and place of the hearing on the proposed action. The notice shall also state the place from which copies of the proposed rules, amendments or rules to be rescinded may be obtained.

Last updated July 10, 2026 at 10:14 AM

History

Effective: January 9, 2004
Promulgated Under: 119.03

Ohio Adm.Code 1501:3-1-03 Severability.

The validity of any rule or portion thereof adopted or amended by the chief of the division of forestry pursuant to Chapter 1503 of the Revised Code shall not be affected by the invalidity of any other rule or portion thereof adopted or amended thereunder by the chief.

Last updated July 10, 2026 at 10:14 AM

History

Effective: September 28, 1977
Promulgated Under: Ch 119.

Ohio Adm.Code 1501:3-1-04 Successor division.

Unless expressly provided to the contrary by any rule of the Administrative Code or any section of the Revised Code, the rules contained in Chapters 1501:3-1 to 1501:3-9 of the Administrative Code shall apply to, and be the rules of, any division or other unit of the department of natural resources which, by virtue of a consolidation or reorganization pursuant to section 121.07 of the Revised Code, or by legislative action, shall succeed to the responsibility of the division of forestry to administer and enforce Chapter 1503 of the Revised Code.

Last updated July 10, 2026 at 10:15 AM

History

Effective: September 28, 1977
Promulgated Under: Ch 119.

Chapter 1501:3-2 Rules for Visitation

Ohio Adm.Code 1501:3-2-01 Hours closed.

(A) No person shall be within or upon the state forests between the hours of eleven p.m. and six a.m. except as hereinafter provided and as provided in rule 1501:3-2-02 of the Administrative Code.

(B) Hocking state forest, all state forest target ranges and all state forest all-purpose vehicle areas shall be closed daily one-half hour after sunset until one-half hour before sunrise throughout the year, except as provided in rule 1501:3-2-02 of the Administrative Code.

(C) The chief of the division of forestry or authorized agent, may temporarily close to the public any state forest or any facility, target range, trail, or area within any state forest where it is determined to be hazardous for public use or detrimental to the resource or facility due to weather, water, fire, construction, timber removal or other situation involving public health, safety, or welfare.

Last updated July 10, 2026 at 10:15 AM

History

Effective: January 9, 2004
Promulgated Under: 119.03

Ohio Adm.Code 1501:3-2-02

Persons engaged in camping or going to and from campsites, persons engaged in legal hunting or fishing at night including such times as may be required for entry prior to or following completion of legal hunting or fishing, or for activities considered preparatory for legal hunting or fishing, and persons using a state forest as access to their private property, and military personnel or other persons engaged in special use under authorization of the chief of the division or authorized agent, may be present in the state forests at any time except the chief may request said persons to evacuate the area in periods of extreme wildland fire danger.

Last updated July 10, 2026 at 10:15 AM

History

Effective: January 9, 2004
Promulgated Under: 119.03

Ohio Adm.Code 1501:3-2-03 Swimming prohibited.

No person shall swim in the waters contained within any state forest except in areas designated by the chief of the division of forestry or authorized agent.

Last updated July 10, 2026 at 10:15 AM

History

Effective: January 9, 2004
Promulgated Under: 119.03

Ohio Adm.Code 1501:3-2-04 Disposition of refuse or debris.

(A) Regardless of intent, no person shall cause to be dumped, or throw, drop, discard, place, or dump litter, rubbish, garbage, refuse, or debris of any kind within any state forest except in such places and within such receptacles as are provided therefor. No person shall deposit rubbish, garbage, refuse, or debris accruing from property other than state forests in receptacles located upon state forest lands.

(B) No person, regardless of intent, shall fell a tree onto state property without notifying the division of forestry prior to doing so or cause a tree to be felled from private property on to state forest property without removing said tree from state property.

Last updated July 10, 2026 at 10:16 AM

History

Effective: July 29, 2021
Promulgated Under: 119.03

Ohio Adm.Code 1501:3-2-05 Removal or disturbance of state property prohibited.

Except as provided in rule 1501:3-2-06 of the Administrative Code, no person shall cut, remove or damage any tree, shrub or plant or pick any wildflowers, or harass or collect any native wild animal, unless engaged in licensed hunting and/or fishing in accordance with provisions of the Revised Code and wildlife rules, nor shall any person dig, excavate or remove any rock, sand, gravel or other mineral from state forests without first obtaining written permission from the chief of the division or authorized agent.

Last updated July 10, 2026 at 10:16 AM

History

Effective: January 9, 2004
Promulgated Under: 119.03

Ohio Adm.Code 1501:3-2-06

Berries, nuts, fruits, cones, seeds, and mushrooms that are not an endangered species or threatened species as designated or governed by applicable state and federal statutes or regulations may be gathered and removed from state forests except seeds gathered from seed orchards, seed collection areas, seed production areas, areas designated as wilderness, designated nature preserves and in other areas designated or posted.

(A)

(B)

Last updated July 10, 2026 at 10:16 AM

History

Effective: July 29, 2021
Promulgated Under: 119.03

Ohio Adm.Code 1501:3-2-08 Kindling a fire prohibited.

(A) No person shall kindle or authorize another to kindle a fire in any state forest except in designated areas or receptacles unless otherwise approved by the chief or authorized agent.

(B) No person shall leave any fire unattended or empty the contents of any furnace, stove or other burner onto the ground before the ignited fuels therein have been extinguished.

Last updated July 10, 2026 at 10:16 AM

History

Effective: January 9, 2004
Promulgated Under: 119.03

Ohio Adm.Code 1501:3-2-10 Use of fireworks prohibited.

No person shall detonate or cause to be detonated or use any commercial or home made fireworks or other explosives, within state forests without first having obtained written permission from the chief of the division or authorized agent.

Last updated July 10, 2026 at 10:16 AM

History

Effective: July 29, 2021
Promulgated Under: 119.03

Ohio Adm.Code 1501:3-2-11 Use or possession of intoxicating beverages.

No person shall consume, display, or possess any alcoholic beverage in any state forest.

Last updated July 10, 2026 at 10:16 AM

History

Effective: May 11, 2009
Promulgated Under: 119.03

Ohio Adm.Code 1501:3-2-13 Permission required for public meetings, events and special activities.

(A) No person or persons shall conduct any public meeting or events, or special activity upon the lands or waters of the division without first obtaining a special use permit from the chief of the division or the chief's authorized agent upon application made not less than thirty days prior to the day of the proposed meeting, event, or special activity. A nonrefundable fee of fifty dollars remitted to the division of forestry to pay administrative processing costs shall accompany each permit application.

(B) Where a special use permit is issued and the activity or event is not exclusively sponsored by the division, the permittee shall be responsible for any and all additional costs, including but not limited to labor, materials, cleaning, or utilities, incurred by the division in connection with the event or activity.

(C) The chief may require a performance guarantee deposit from the permittee as a condition for issuance of the special use permit. The chief may retain a portion of the performance guarantee deposit equal to the additional costs incurred by the division in connection with the activity or event. The permittee shall be responsible for payment of any and all such costs in excess of the performance guarantee deposit.

(D) The chief or the chief's authorized agent may waive any of the rules or fees listed.

Last updated July 10, 2026 at 10:16 AM

History

Effective: July 29, 2021
Promulgated Under: 119.03

Ohio Adm.Code 1501:3-2-14 Construction of structures prohibited.

No person shall construct, erect, or use any structure on state forest land except tents in designated campgrounds without first obtaining approval in writing from the chief of the division or authorized agent. Portable deer stands that are temporarily installed without driving nails or inserting other devices permanently into a tree and that are removed without damage to any vegetation are permitted during the legal deer seasons. The stand shall have stamped into or attached thereto on a durable waterproof tag the name and mailing address of the user in English letters legible at all times or the state hunter identification number.

Last updated July 10, 2026 at 10:33 AM

History

Effective: July 29, 2021
Promulgated Under: 119.03

Ohio Adm.Code 1501:3-2-15 Rock-climbing and rappelling permitted in designated areas only.

(A) No person shall participate in rappelling or engage in rock-climbing in any state forest except on areas designated for rock-climbing or rappelling. No person shall participate in rappelling or engage in rock-climbing without the use of technical or specialized equipment designed for such use.

(B) No person shall engage in rappelling or rock-climbing, or enter the rappelling and rock-climbing designated area, without first registering in the place and manner required and provided.

Last updated July 10, 2026 at 10:33 AM

History

Effective: January 9, 2004
Promulgated Under: 119.03

Ohio Adm.Code 1501:3-2-16 Aviation.

No person shall operate, take off, or ascend within or from the lands or waters administered by the division in any airplane, flying machine, balloon, glider, unmanned aerial vehicle, or other aerial apparatus except with the permission of the chief of the division or authorized agent. No person shall voluntarily bring, land or alight, within or upon the lands or waters administered by the division, in any airplane, flying machine, balloon, parachute, unmanned aerial vehicle, or other aerial apparatus except with the permission of the chief of the division or authorized agent.

Last updated July 10, 2026 at 10:33 AM

History

Effective: May 3, 2019
Promulgated Under: 119.03

Ohio Adm.Code 1501:3-2-17 Releasing of animals and plants prohibited.

No person shall release any wild or domestic animal, or abandon such animal, or plant or culture any seed or vegetation of any type in any area administered by the division without the written permission of the chief of the division or authorized agent.

Last updated July 10, 2026 at 10:33 AM

History

Effective: January 9, 2004
Promulgated Under: 119.03

Ohio Adm.Code 1501:3-2-18 Animals and pets in state forests.

(A) Domestic cats and dogs or horses as provided in rule 1501:3-3-08 and rule 1501:3-4-04 of the Administrative Code are permitted unless otherwise posted or designated and provided they are leashed or under control at all times. Animals in campgrounds are subject to rule 1501:3-3-08 of the Administrative Code. Trained hunting dogs under the control of a hunter in a designated hunting area as established under rule 1501:3-6-03 of the Administrative Code are permitted, while hunting or training during lawful hours and seasons are as established by statute, rule or order.

(B) Any animal found running at large may be seized and disposed of as provided by law or ordinance covering the disposal of stray animals on highways or public property in effect in the territory in which the area administered by the division is located wherein such stray animal is seized.

(C) The owner or handler of any animal under the control or supervision of any person within a state forest which disturbs the quiet or acts in a threatening manner towards any person or other animal may be directed by a law enforcement officer to remove the animal from the state forest.

(D) The tethering of any horse or other animal by picket line or any other method to any tree or vegetation is prohibited except in designated areas.

(E) No person shall bring an animal not otherwise governed by rules of the division of forestry in the Administrative Code into state forests except as may be approved by and in places designated by the chief of the division or authorized agent.

Last updated August 28, 2026 at 8:14 AM

History

Effective: August 28, 2026
Promulgated Under: 119.03

Ohio Adm.Code 1501:3-3-08

Blind or deaf persons may bring or keep guide or other dogs, especially trained for the purpose of aiding any such person into campgrounds administered by the division. Horseback riders may bring or keep horses in areas designated as horse campgrounds. Persons may bring or keep domestic cats and dogs to campgrounds administered by the division subject to rule 1501:3-2-18 of the Administrative Code and the following restrictions:

(A) No person who is the handler or owner of a domestic animal shall fail to clean up and place in a rubbish receptacle any excrement left by their pet in the campground.

(B) No person shall wash any animal at a water hydrant, water pump or lake.

(C) No person shall bring any domestic animal other than a trained service animal into any enclosed state owned structure in the campground.

(D) No person shall bring a domestic dog or cat into the campground unless the person has proof of current rabies inoculation for the animal and a collar or tag bearing the owner's name and address is attached to the animal.

(E) A domestic animal may be staked on the owner's or handler's campsite provided that the animal is staked in such a manner that it does not infringe on a neighboring campsite or interfere with or menace passersby. Dogs must be leashed and under control while in the campgrounds.

Last updated July 10, 2026 at 10:35 AM

History

Effective: July 29, 2021
Promulgated Under: 119.03

Ohio Adm.Code 1501:3-4-04

(A) No person shall operate any vehicle, snowmobile, bicycle, dog sled, or horse within any state forest except over and upon roads, trails or other facilities designated and provided and posted for such purpose unless authorized by the chief or his authorized agent.

(B) No person shall cause a vehicle, dog sled, bicycle, snowmobile or horse to be operated or lead in a careless, negligent or reckless manner.

(C) This rule shall not restrict the use of a motorized wheelchair or scooter by a person who is non-ambulatory in any area open to the public and where not otherwise restricted for safety purposes, resource protection, or by designation of the chief or authorized agent.

Last updated July 10, 2026 at 11:13 AM

History

Effective: August 13, 2015
Promulgated Under: 119.03

Ohio Adm.Code 1501:3-6-03

No person shall do the following:

(A) Hunt, trap, fish, kill, pursue, shoot or take any wildlife or wild animal by any means in any state forest area in which such is specifically prohibited by signs or on maps as designated by the chief or authorized agent.

(B) Shoot on, from, or across any road or driveway within any state forest.

Last updated July 10, 2026 at 11:15 AM

History

Effective: July 29, 2021
Promulgated Under: 119.03

Ohio Adm.Code 1501:3-2-19 Paleontological, archaeological, historical and geological features.

No person shall remove from, injure, disfigure, deface, destroy or disturb any object or feature of paleontological, archaeological, geological or historical interest or value in any area administered by the division without first obtaining written permission from the chief of the division or authorized agent.

Last updated July 10, 2026 at 10:34 AM

History

Effective: January 9, 2004
Promulgated Under: 119.03

Ohio Adm.Code 1501:3-2-20 Metal detectors prohibited.

No person shall use or offer for use any device for the purpose of locating or removing any metallic objects or any other objects of value from any lands or waters administered by the division without first having obtained written permission from the chief of the division or authorized agent.

Last updated July 10, 2026 at 10:34 AM

History

Effective: January 9, 2004
Promulgated Under: 119.03

Ohio Adm.Code 1501:3-2-21 Paintball, AirSoft activity prohibited.

No person shall discharge any device capable of propelling a plastic BB or capsule which upon impact with a person or object will release a dye or colorant within any state forest except as permitted by the chief or authorized agent.

Last updated July 10, 2026 at 10:34 AM

History

Effective: May 11, 2009
Promulgated Under: 119.03

Ohio Adm.Code 1501:3-2-22 Unattended cameras; geocaches prohibited.

(A) No person shall leave a game camera or otherwise stationary camera unless it has a durable, waterproof tag that lists the name, phone number, and mailing address of the user in legible English letters or the state hunter identification number.

(B) No person shall leave any container for use as a geocache unless given prior written permission from the chief of the division of forestry or authorized agent.

Last updated July 10, 2026 at 10:34 AM

History

Effective: July 29, 2021
Promulgated Under: 119.03

Chapter 1501:3-3 Camping

Ohio Adm.Code 1501:3-3-01 Camping permitted in designated areas.

No person shall camp in a state forest except in areas, sites or campgrounds designated by the chief of the division of forestry or authorized agent.

Last updated July 10, 2026 at 10:34 AM

History

Effective: January 9, 2004
Promulgated Under: 119.03

Ohio Adm.Code 1501:3-3-02 Camp registration.

(A) Any person camping in any designated campgrounds shall personally register the campsite with the division to secure a camping permit. Any applicable fees are required to be paid during the online reservation process, in the form and manner prescribed by the division, prior to occupancy.

(B) No person or property shall occupy more than one campsite and no person shall register or reserve a campsite for another person.

(C) Display of the issued camping permit shall be made in a conspicuous location upon the tent or trailer, except that when numbered site posts are provided the permit shall be affixed thereto, and except that backpack camping permittees may carry the permit on their person.

(D) No person shall register for a campsite in horse campgrounds unless such person has a horse at the campgrounds or is a part of a party that has and rides a horse or horses at the campgrounds, except as approved by the chief of the division or authorized agent.

(E) No person shall register for a campsite in any state forest hunters' camp except legally licensed hunters and only during the period from one day prior to the opening of squirrel season through one day after the closing of grouse season and from fourteen days prior to the opening of wild turkey season to one day following the closing of wild turkey season annually as established by statute, rule or order of the division of wildlife, except as approved by the chief of the division or authorized agent.

(F) Individuals who possess a vehicle that meets the requirements of rule 1501:3-4-12 of the Administrative Code at the campgrounds, is part of a party that has vehicles meeting the requirements of that rule, or is approved by the chief of the division or authorized agent are permitted to register for a campsite in an all purpose vehicle campground.

(G) Tents or similar type camping equipment are permitted only in campground locations with restroom facilities. Camping trailers or other types of recreational vehicles that meet the requirements of rule 1501:3-3-04 of the Administrative Code are allowed in areas of the state forest without restroom facilities.

(H) Online registration will be avaliable ninety days prior to date of stay.

Last updated August 13, 2025 at 7:38 AM

History

Effective: August 10, 2025
Promulgated Under: 119.03

Ohio Adm.Code 1501:3-4-12

(A) Bicycles, class 1 electric bicycles, motorcycles, all purpose vehicles, and utility vehicles may be operated in the state forest all-purpose vehicle areas with proper display of current registration pursuant to sections 4519.04 and 4519.09 of the Revised Code. Registered snowmobiles are permitted at the Maumee all-purpose vehicle area and the designated Mohican state forest trails.

(B) Permitted vehicles must have a manufacturer installed or equivalent spark arrestor and muffler. Noise emitted from off-highway motorcycles, all purpose vehicles, and utility vehicles must be less than ninety-nine decibels at twenty inches from the exhaust outlet as measured in the conformance with SAE J1287. Snowmobiles must be in accordance with division (A)(4) of section 4519.20 of the Revised Code.

Last updated August 28, 2026 at 8:14 AM

History

Effective: August 28, 2026
Promulgated Under: 119.03

Ohio Adm.Code 1501:3-3-04

Travel trailers, camping trailers and any other type of recreational vehicle having plumbing fixtures with provisions for outside drainage must meet the following requirements before camping in state forests:

(A) Mobile housing units must be provided with a suitable, nonspilling holding tank which will not overflow and be connected with leakproof coupling to a drain(s) that is controllable to allow for contents to be transported by the occupant and disposed of off state forest land.

(B) No person shall drain or discharge the contents of a septic tank from a mobile housing unit on to state forest land.

(C) Drain(s) from the sink, wash basin and shower may be drained into a suitable external holding device provided such device is not spilled, overflowed or drained onto a campsite and is collected and removed from state forest land by the occupant.

Last updated July 10, 2026 at 10:35 AM

History

Effective: July 29, 2021
Promulgated Under: 119.03

Ohio Adm.Code 1501:3-3-03 Removal of camp on expiration of permit.

A person camping on any area shall remove his camp from the camping area prior to 4:00 p.m. of the day on which his camping permit expires.

Last updated July 10, 2026 at 10:35 AM

History

Effective: September 16, 1974
Promulgated Under: Ch 119.

Ohio Adm.Code 1501:3-3-05 Use of campground facilities; permit required; visitors.

No person shall walk into or drive any vehicle into or through any designated campground, camp area or campsite or park any vehicle in a designated campground, camp area or campsite of the division in a manner which would annoy or interfere with person or persons desiring to camp or in possession of a valid camping permit.

Last updated July 10, 2026 at 10:35 AM

History

Effective: July 16, 1995
Promulgated Under: Ch 119.

Ohio Adm.Code 1501:3-3-06 Camp occupancy.

(A) Campgrounds are areas with designated campsites.

(1) A permit is required for each campsite unless waived by the Chief of the division or authorized agent.

(2) No permit will be issued to any person for more than fourteen days in any thirty-day period.

(3) No campsite unless otherwise posted may be occupied by more than ten persons plus:

(a) A tent or tents having separate or combined maximum floor space not in excess of three hundred square feet; or

(b) One motor vehicle in combination with a tent or tents as limited in paragraph (A)(2)(a) of this rule; or

(d) One camper trailer or, travel trailer; or

(e) One motor vehicle or one recreational vehicle, in addition to one of the mentioned vehicles, may be parked on the site parking pad for daily transportation use.

(4) Each campsite shall be occupied by the camper the first night of registration and no campsite shall be left unoccupied by persons for a period in excess of twenty-four hours.

(5) Each campsite shall be maintained by the camper in a sanitary and clean manner or condition.

(6) No person shall disturb the quiet of other persons nor disturb the peace and quiet of other persons in any manner between the hours of ten p.m. and eight a.m.

(7) No person shall erect a portable electrified or non-electrified corral except in designated horse campgrounds and in the manner approved by the chief of the division or chief's designee. .

(B) Roadside camping is permitted at designated state forests, along public roads maintained by the division of forestry, during certain legally established hunting seasons as authorized by the chief of the division of forestry.

(1) Only self-contained camping units meeting the requirements of rule 1501:3-3-04 of the Administrative Code are permitted, unless restroom facilities are available.

(2) Vehicles must be parked sufficient distance off the roadway so as not to present a hazard to passing traffic and shall not block roads, trails or gated access areas.

(3) All other restrictions established in paragraph (A) of this rule shall apply to roadside camping.

Last updated July 10, 2026 at 10:35 AM

History

Effective: July 29, 2021
Promulgated Under: 119.03

Ohio Adm.Code 1501:3-3-07 Camping fees.

(A) The daily fee for overnight camping at state forest campgrounds will not exceed the following rates:

Family camping site	$46.00 per night
Horse camping site	$46.00 per night

(B) A non-refundable deposit equal to the fee of the first night's stay is required to confirm a campsite where reservations are accepted.

(C) A fee of one dollar per night for each horse, in addition to all other camping fees, shall be collected from the owner or handler camping in a horse campground.

(D) Persons who are holders of a "Golden Buckeye Membership Card" issued by the Ohio department of aging shall be charged for a camping permit at a rate of fifty per cent of the daily fee.

(E) Each person who is a resident of Ohio that possesses an honorable discharge from the armed forces that has been determined by the veterans' administration to be permanently and totally disabled and possesses certification to this effect, is exempt from camping fees. Every veteran to whom the registrar of motor vehicles has issued a set of license plates under section 4503.101 of the Revised Code is exempt from camping fees in state forests.

(F) The chief of the division may waive any or all camping fees and fees for horses at designated horse campgrounds.

(G) All or a portion of camping fees may be waived by the chief or authorized agent for persons performing service projects or other volunteer activity that directly benefits state forest programs and/or facilities.

(H) Persons may be required to deposit fees for the camp site(s) in the manner and/or place provided.

Last updated December 18, 2025 at 8:48 AM

History

Effective: December 18, 2025
Promulgated Under: 119.03

Ohio Adm.Code 1501:3-3-08 Animals in campgrounds.

(A) No person who is the handler or owner of a domestic animal shall fail to clean up and place in a rubbish receptacle any excrement left by their pet in the campground.

(B) No person shall wash any animal at a water hydrant, water pump or lake.

(C) No person shall bring any domestic animal other than a trained service animal into any enclosed state owned structure in the campground.

Last updated July 10, 2026 at 10:35 AM

History

Effective: July 29, 2021
Promulgated Under: 119.03

Ohio Adm.Code 1501:3-2-18

(D) The tethering of any horse or other animal by picket line or any other method to any tree or vegetation is prohibited except in designated areas.

Last updated August 28, 2026 at 8:14 AM

History

Effective: August 28, 2026
Promulgated Under: 119.03

Chapter 1501:3-4 Motor Vehicles

Ohio Adm.Code 1501:3-4-01 Vehicle speed limits.

The vehicle speed limit on state forest roads is thirty mph except when otherwise designated and posted by the division. The state forest all-purpose vehicle parking lot speed limit is five mph unless otherwise posted. No person shall operate a vehicle contrary to the provisions of this rule.

Last updated July 10, 2026 at 11:13 AM

History

Effective: August 13, 2015
Promulgated Under: 119.03

Ohio Adm.Code 1501:3-4-02 Obstructing vehicular or pedestrian traffic.

No person shall stop or park a vehicle within state forests in any place that will obstruct traffic, or access to service roads of the division or where posted.

Last updated July 10, 2026 at 11:13 AM

History

Effective: August 13, 2015
Promulgated Under: 119.03

Ohio Adm.Code 1501:3-4-03 Parked vehicles; exception.

No person shall park any vehicle within state forests during the hours of closure as defined in rule 1501:3-2-01 of the Administrative Code except that registered campers may park vehicles in designated parking areas for the length of time permitted by such camping, and that individuals engaged in legal hunting and fishing and military personnel or other persons engaged in special use under authorization of the chief or authorized agent are excepted.

Last updated July 10, 2026 at 11:13 AM

History

Effective: August 13, 2015
Promulgated Under: 119.03

Ohio Adm.Code 1501:3-2-01

(A) No person shall be within or upon the state forests between the hours of eleven p.m. and six a.m. except as hereinafter provided and as provided in rule 1501:3-2-02 of the Administrative Code.

Last updated July 10, 2026 at 10:15 AM

History

Effective: January 9, 2004
Promulgated Under: 119.03

Ohio Adm.Code 1501:3-4-04 Vehicles, snowmobiles, bicycles, dog sleds, horses required to stay on roads or trails; negligent operation, accessibility.

(B) No person shall cause a vehicle, dog sled, bicycle, snowmobile or horse to be operated or lead in a careless, negligent or reckless manner.

Last updated July 10, 2026 at 11:13 AM

History

Effective: August 13, 2015
Promulgated Under: 119.03

Ohio Adm.Code 1501:3-4-05 Boats and watercraft with motors prohibited; exception.

No person shall operate watercraft with motors on state forest lakes, except that electric motors are permitted.

Last updated July 10, 2026 at 11:14 AM

History

Effective: September 16, 1974
Promulgated Under: Ch 119.

Ohio Adm.Code 1501:3-4-08 One way trails.

No person shall operate any vehicle, bicycle, or snowmobile on a one way trail in a direction opposite to which it is posted.

Last updated July 10, 2026 at 11:14 AM

History

Effective: August 13, 2015
Promulgated Under: 119.03

Ohio Adm.Code 1501:3-4-10 Passengers.

No person shall, while operating any vehicle, bicycle, or snowmobile on a designated road, trail, or area, carry more passengers than the vehicle, bicycle, or snowmobile's designed capacity.

Last updated July 10, 2026 at 11:14 AM

History

Effective: August 13, 2015
Promulgated Under: 119.03

Ohio Adm.Code 1501:3-4-12 Vehicles permitted in the all purpose vehicle area; vehicle exhaust requirements; vehicle size limits in all purpose vehicle area.

Last updated August 28, 2026 at 8:14 AM

History

Effective: August 28, 2026
Promulgated Under: 119.03

Ohio Adm.Code 1501:3-4-13 Removal of vehicles, bicycles or snowmobiles.

Whenever any law enforcement officer finds any vehicle, bicycle, or snowmobile stopped, parked or standing in an area prohibited by rule 1501:3-4-03 of the Administrative Code or unattended upon or within the right-of-way of any road or where such vehicle, bicycle, or snowmobile clearly obstructs pedestrian or vehicular traffic or poses a hazard to property or people, such officer may arrange for the removal of said vehicle, bicycle, or snowmobile. Cost and risks of such removal shall be borne by the owner/operator of said vehicle, bicycle, or snowmobile.

Last updated July 10, 2026 at 11:14 AM

History

Effective: August 13, 2015
Promulgated Under: 119.03

Ohio Adm.Code 1501:3-4-14 Helmets and eye protection in state forests.

No person shall operate or ride any permitted vehicle or snowmobile on any state forest trail or area designated and provided for such use without a protective helmet and eye protection. All helmets and shall conform to federal department of transportation FMVSS218 standard and clearly display the D.O.T logo.

Last updated July 10, 2026 at 11:14 AM

History

Effective: July 29, 2021
Promulgated Under: 119.03

Ohio Adm.Code 1501:3-4-15 Seasonal closure of all-purpose vehicle area.

Unless otherwise posted or approved by the chief, Pike state forest, Perry state forest, and Richland Furnace state forest APV areas and trails shall be closed to all-purpose vehicle use annually beginning on the second Monday morning in December and ending on the first Friday morning in April. Snowmobiles are not permitted at these APV areas. Maumee state forest APV area does not close to allow for snowmobile use. Mohican state forest designated trails may be used by snowmobiles only when conditions are suitable.

Last updated July 10, 2026 at 11:14 AM

History

Effective: July 29, 2021
Promulgated Under: 119.03

Chapter 1501:3-5 Concessions and Signs

Ohio Adm.Code 1501:3-5-01 Permit required to sell or rent items.

(A) No person in any state forest shall offer for sale, sell, or have in his possession with intent to sell any food, beverage or other article, or service without the written permission of the chief of the division or authorized agent.

(B) No person shall rent or offer to rent or have in their possession with the intent to rent, any service, animal, machine or item, or any other commercial activity on state forest property, regardless if the exchange of money occurred on state forest property, without first obtaining a special use permit from the chief of the division or authorized agent and paying any applicable fee.

Last updated July 10, 2026 at 11:15 AM

History

Effective: May 11, 2009
Promulgated Under: 119.03

Ohio Adm.Code 1501:3-5-02 Signs, posters prohibited.

No person shall erect or post in any state forest any placard, sign, notice, poster, or billboard without the written permission of the chief of the division or authorized agent.

Last updated July 10, 2026 at 11:15 AM

History

Effective: January 9, 2004
Promulgated Under: 119.03

Ohio Adm.Code 1501:3-5-03 Mineral exploration prohibited, exceptions, fee.

(A) Commercial exploration of state forests for minerals, oil and gas is prohibited without written permission of the chief of the division.

(B) Persons desiring to conduct exploration activities shall apply for a special use permit thirty days in advance of the planned activity in the form and manner prescribed by the division. A nonrefundable application fee of fifty dollars shall accompany each application.

(C) If a special use permit is issued, a performance guarantee deposit may be required in the form specified by the division. Any or all of the performance guarantee deposit may be retained by the division when damages or additional expenses are incurred and documented as a result of the activity. The balance of the performance guarantee deposit will be returned to the permittee.

(D) If a special use permit is issued, and administration of the permitted activity requires additional costs in the form of labor, materials or utilities, the special use permit fee may be increased by an amount equal to the additional costs to be incurred by the division.

Last updated July 10, 2026 at 11:15 AM

History

Effective: April 4, 2019
Promulgated Under: 119.03

Chapter 1501:3-6 Firearms; Hunting and Fishing

Ohio Adm.Code 1501:3-6-02 Prohibited use of firearms.

No person shall use a rifle, pistol, revolver, shotgun or other firearm on any state forest area at any time except while lawfully hunting wild animals or target practicing on a designated target range.

Last updated July 10, 2026 at 11:15 AM

History

Effective: August 13, 2015
Promulgated Under: 119.03

Ohio Adm.Code 1501:3-6-03 Hunting, fishing, trapping prohibited; public hunting, fishing, trapping areas.

No person shall do the following:

(B) Shoot on, from, or across any road or driveway within any state forest.

Last updated July 10, 2026 at 11:15 AM

History

Effective: July 29, 2021
Promulgated Under: 119.03

Ohio Adm.Code 1501:3-6-04 Use of target ranges.

The following shall govern use of the target ranges for rifle and trap shooting provided and designated on state forests:

(A) Designated ranges are open to public use on a first come, first serve basis.

(B) All rules of gun safety, firing only downrange toward the backstop and loading weapons only on the range or benches, shall be strictly observed at all times.

(C) Hours of use are contained in paragraph (B) of rule 1501:3-2-01 of the Administrative Code. Signs posted at the entrance to each range shall set forth inclusive hours of use.

(D) Maximum number of shooters permitted at any one time shall be determined by the capacity of the shooting lanes provided.

(E) The range may be closed for maintenance or other reasons at any time as determined by the chief or authorized agent.

(F) No persons shall use targets made of material other than paper or clay, without written permission from the chief or authorized agent.

(G) Persons using ranges are responsible for removal of debris from the range, which includes but is not limited to, paper and cardboard targets, target stand brought by the shooter, shell casings, and litter which was generated by the shooter's activity. Excepting ranges which provide receptacles for debris disposal, shooters must remove all debris from state forest property upon completion of their activity.

(H) Persons shall use or fire on ranges only those weapons permitted for legal hunting in Ohio as defined by statute, rule or order of the division of wildlife or as approved by the chief or his authorized agent.

(I) No person shall use or fire centerfire rifles on ranges of fifty yards or less in length.

(J) No person shall use or fire automatic weapons of any kind on a range without written permission from the chief or designated agent.

(K) All tracer and explosive rounds are prohibited.

(L) All shooters must wear eye and ear protection.

(M) Shooters may use only ranges designated for their specific type of shooting activity (trap range, pistol range, and rifle range).

(N) The use of shotgun slugs is prohibited at trap ranges.

(O) Each person using a range shall register in the place and manner provided.

(P) Use of explosive targets is prohibited.

(Q) On any designated state forest target range, it shall be unlawful for any person to shoot in any direction other than from the firing lane down range to the target.

Last updated July 10, 2026 at 11:15 AM

History

Effective: August 13, 2015
Promulgated Under: 119.03

Ohio Adm.Code 1501:3-2-01

(A) No person shall be within or upon the state forests between the hours of eleven p.m. and six a.m. except as hereinafter provided and as provided in rule 1501:3-2-02 of the Administrative Code.

Last updated July 10, 2026 at 10:15 AM

History

Effective: January 9, 2004
Promulgated Under: 119.03

Ohio Adm.Code 1501:3-6-05 Exception to use of target ranges.

No person under sixteen years of age shall use the target ranges unless accompanied by a person eighteen years of age or older.

Last updated July 10, 2026 at 11:15 AM

History

Effective: January 9, 2004
Promulgated Under: 119.03

Ohio Adm.Code 1501:3-6-07 Use of bait and taking of an animal using bait.

(A) It shall be unlawful for any person to distribute, place, or scatter salt, grain, or other feed whatsoever capable of luring, enticing, or attracting wild birds or deer on state forests without first obtaining written permission from the chief of the division of forestry or authorized agent.

(B) It shall be unlawful to hunt or take wild birds or deer by the use of salt, grain, or other feed whatsoever capable of luring, enticing, or attracting wild birds or deer on state forests without first obtaining written permission from the chief of the division of forestry or authorized agent.

Last updated July 10, 2026 at 11:16 AM

History

Effective: July 29, 2021
Promulgated Under: 119.03

Chapter 1501:3-7 Forest Officer Authority

Ohio Adm.Code 1501:3-7-01 Authority of forest officer.

Persons designated by the chief of the division to enforce these rules and regulations shall be appointed and be commissioned as forest officers and have authority under sections 1503.29, 1503.30, 1503.31, and 2935.03 of the Revised Code.

Last updated July 10, 2026 at 11:16 AM

History

Effective: January 9, 2004
Promulgated Under: 119.03

Chapter 1501:3-8 Nature Preserves

Ohio Adm.Code 1501:3-8-01 Nature preserves.

These rules shall not suspend any rules of nature preserves which are dedicated pursuant to section 1517.05 of the Revised Code and are located within state forests.

Last updated July 10, 2026 at 11:16 AM

History

Effective: September 28, 1977
Promulgated Under: Ch 119.

Chapter 1501:3-9 Penalties

Ohio Adm.Code 1501:3-9-01 Penalties for violations of rules.

Violators of these rules and regulations shall be subject to fine pursuant to Section 1503.99 or other applicable sections of the Ohio Revised Code.

Last updated July 10, 2026 at 11:16 AM

History

Effective: September 16, 1974
Promulgated Under: Ch 119.

Chapter 1501:3-10 Forest Management Plans

Ohio Adm.Code 1501:3-10-01 Definitions.

For purposes of rules 1501:3-10-01 to 1501:3-10-07 of the Administrative Code:

(A) "Accepted silvicultural systems" means any even or uneven-aged management process that includes all the practices necessary to sustain a forest in a productive capacity. Practices include any cutting or cultural treatment necessary to replace and develop a forest stand.

(B) "Application" means the submission of an online application, if available, or combination of the request for classification of forest land (DNR Form FT-6) and one signed agreement form (DNR Form FT-7), an approved forest management plan, one copy of an aerial photo or property plat, and one copy of the previous year's tax bill.

(C) "Basal area" means the total cross sectional area of all live commercial species of trees expressed as square feet per acre and on individual trees, is measured at a point four and one-half feet above the ground.

(D) "Best management practices" means those generally accepted measures and practices that meet minimum specifications in preventing soil erosion and other nonpoint source pollution. The "BMPs for Erosion Control for Logging and Forestry Practices in Ohio" published by ODNR, 2023 defines the generally accepted measures and practices per this paragraph.

(E) "Certified forest land" means forest lands as specified in paragraph (P) of this rule that have been approved and certified by the chief for taxation in accordance with section 5713.23 of the Revised Code. This includes a forest land certificate issued by the chief that identifies the owner, parcel(s), qualifying forest land acreage, and copies of the declarations filed with the county auditor of the county in which such lands are located, instructing the auditor that the certified land will be taxed the current value for land devoted exclusively to forestry under section 5713.23 of the Revised Code.

(F) "Chief" means the chief of the Ohio department of natural resources, division of forestry or the chief's designee.

(G) "Clearcutting" means a silvicultural practice involving the removal of the entire standing crop as well as all other undesirable trees and vegetation down to a diameter of two inches measured at four and one-half feet above the ground from an area of five acres or larger in preparation for renewal of the forest.

(H) "Commercial cutting" means any cutting prescribed by an approved forest management plan that produces merchantable forest products and where the costs of cutting are less than the revenues generated while maintaining the land in productive forest.

(I) "Commercial species" means species of forest trees suitable to the site and climate that are capable of producing and regularly produce merchantable forest products. This definition excludes species considered to be invasive plants.

(J) "Contiguous" refers to an eligible parcel where forest lands are adjacent or near each other. These may be separated by non-forest land owned and controlled by the owner, or federal, state, county or township roads, easements, rights-of-way, energy transmission corridors, or similar facilities, as long as vehicular access necessary for forest management purposes is not precluded. Adjacent forest lands on two or more parcels under the same owner that together meet the qualifications specified in paragraph (A) of rule 1501:3-10-02 of the Administrative Code and otherwise meeting the definition of this paragraph are considered contiguous.

(K) "Crop-tree release" means a non-commercial cutting process by which stand-specific objectives are established and "crop-trees" that will ultimately meet these objectives are identified throughout the stand. These crop-trees are then released from competition through the removal or deadening of adjacent trees that interfere with the crown of the crop-trees.

(L) "Deferment cutting" means removal in one cut of all trees from an area, save a small number of mature trees. Residual mature trees will remain and be managed as a component of the new stand of trees.

(M) "Division" means the Ohio department of natural resources, division of forestry.

(N) "Examination" means a visit by the division for the purpose of verifying conditions for forest tax law classification or for checking plan compliance.

(O) "Family member" means spouse, son, daughter, stepson, stepdaughter, stepparents, son-in-law, daughter-in-law, grandson, granddaughter, father, mother, grandfather, grandmother, step-grandfather, step-grandmother, and legally adopted children. Partnerships, trusts, or limited liability corporations established by individual owners of certified forest land for the benefit of themselves or any other family members associated with the original certificate are also included in this definition.

(P) "Forest land" means land for which the primary purpose is the growing, managing and harvesting of a merchantable forest product of commercial species under accepted silvicultural systems through natural or artificial reforestation methods and for which there is an approved forest management plan. The forest land will consist of a stand or stands of commercial species of forest trees which contain at least fifty square feet of basal area or at least three hundred stems per acre and will be evenly distributed throughout the stand. Land otherwise meeting the definition of forest land per this paragraph but where such purposes are prohibited or made impracticable by ordinance, resolution, easement or other restriction are excluded from this definition.

(Q) "Forest management plan" means a written document establishing direction and goals for the management of a specific forest land area. If not prepared by the division, the document needs to be developed by a professional consulting forester. The plan will specify all silvicultural practices and activities necessary to accomplish the merchantable production of a forest product, all practices that will minimize adverse environmental effects and will include but not be limited to the elements described in rule 1501:3-10-04 of the Administrative Code.

(R) "Forest plantation" means a stand artificially reforested with a commercial species and established by planting or direct seeding. A plantation will have at least three hundred live stems per acre evenly distributed throughout the site one full calendar year after reforestation.

(S) "Forestry" means management of forest land.

(T) "Forestry services provider" means a person offering any or all of the following services: tree planting, implementation of best management practices, buyer of timber, or implementation of a silvicultural activity. The chief may periodically prepare a list of forestry services providers that desire to have their name appear on such a list.

(U) "Invasive plant" means an alien plant species whose introduction does or is likely to cause economic or environmental harm or harm to human health.

(V) "Management" means an active physical role in enhancing stand quality, future productivity and environmental quality of forest land pursuant to forest management plan as specified in paragraph (Q) of this rule.

(W) "Master logger" means any company that has met the requirements set forth and been conferred master logger status by the Ohio forestry association.

(X) "Merchantable forest product" means maple syrup, timber or pulpwood, including veneer bolts, sawlogs, poles, posts, chips, and fuelwood, that is produced on forest land, has a value in the market and may be sold. This definition excludes Christmas trees.

(Y) "Non-commercial cutting" means the costs of cutting exceed any revenues generated. This includes those practices that improve the vigor and productivity of the remaining stand by cutting non-commercial species; such cutting may involve removal of merchantable products if it is incidental to the cutting.

(Z) "Non-commercial species" of trees means forest trees that do not regularly produce merchantable products and include but are not limited to the following species: (1) Cornus spp. (dogwood); (2) Carpinus caroliniana (American hornbeam); (3) Ostrya virginiana (ironwood); (4) Asimina triloba (pawpaw); (5) Cercis canadensis (redbud); (6) Amelanchier spp. (service berry); (7) Oxydendrum arboreum (sourwood); (8) Salix spp. (willow); (9) pomaceous trees; and (10) invasive plants.

(AA) "Nonpoint source pollution" means pollution of waterways or ground waters by a pollutant or pollutants whose source is from a broad area and cannot be attributed to a single defined point.

(BB) "Owner" includes, but is not limited to, any person, persons, or trust owning in fee simple, fee tail, or life estate.

(CC) "Professional consulting forester" means a person attaining the credential of certified forester as conferred by the society of American foresters or a person who is a member of the association of consulting foresters, or a person with an associates degree or higher in forestry who has been certified by the chief for the purposes of rules 1501:3-10-01 to 1501:3-10-07 of the Administrative Code. The chief may periodically prepare a list of persons meeting this definition and maintains the ability to remove persons from this list whose management plan does not comply with 1501:3-10-04 of the Administrative Code.

(DD) "Selection cutting" means the removal of selected trees throughout the range of merchantable sizes at regular intervals either singly or in groups (group selection) of up to five acres in size to produce a merchantable forest product and enhance the quality of the residual stand.

(EE) "Seed-tree cutting" means the removal in one cut all trees from an area, save for a small number of mature trees for seed production. Residual trees may be left as individuals or small groups. The residual trees will be removed after the establishment of a new stand of trees.

(FF) "Shelterwood cutting" means removing a significant portion (generally one-half to one-third) of the mature trees in one cut from an area, with the remaining trees providing a source of seed and shelter for a new stand of trees. Residual mature trees will be removed after the establishment of the new stand of trees.

(GG) "Silvicultural activity" means any management activity that controls the establishment, composition, constitution, growth and productivity of forests.

(HH) "Stand" means an aggregation of trees occupying a specific area and sufficiently uniform in species composition, arrangement or condition so as to be sufficiently distinguishable from adjacent stands.

(II) " Parcel" means an identified area of land described and recorded on one deed.

Last updated December 18, 2025 at 8:51 AM

History

Effective: December 18, 2025
Promulgated Under: 119.03

Ohio Adm.Code 1501:3-10-07

Forest land certified as eligible by the division for taxation in accordance with section 5713.23 of the Revised Code prior to November 7, 1994 shall not be subject to rules 1501:3-10-02 to 1501:3-10-06 of the Administrative Code. These forest lands will be subject to the following provisions.

(A) The forest land certified under this rule will consist of a minimum of five contiguous acres and will be no less than one hundred and twenty feet wide. It will be accessible for management and meet the definition of forest land as specified in paragraph (P) of rule 1501:3-10-01 of the Administrative Code, except that no management plan will be required. For the purposes of forest land acreage determination, a minimum of one acre will be deducted for any house or building site.

(B) Forest land certified under this rule will be protected from:

(1) Grazing; and

(2) Wildfire

(1) Forest land acreage may be added to forest land certified under this rule only if together the total forest land meets all eligibility requirements of paragraphs (C), (D), and to (F) of rule 1501:3-10-02 of the Administrative Code. The minimum acreage eligible for certification is specified in paragraph (A) of this rule.

(2) Forest land certified under this rule will not be converted to a use other than for production of a merchantable forest product. In the event of such a conversion, a notice of violation will be forwarded to the county auditor and the certification will be canceled for the forest land.

(D) Changes in ownership:

(1) Any change in ownership will result in the cancellation of forest land certification except that an ownership change to affect the transfer of a certified property to one or more family members as defined in paragraph (O) of rule 1501:3-10-01 of the Administrative Code will not result in the cancellation of certification upon the affirmation by the family member or members to the original agreement terms (FT-7) and forest management plan if applicable.

(2) When certified forest land is divided or split into two or more ownerships, the certification is canceled except when certified forest land is divided or split by the owner to effect the transfer to one or more family member(s) as defined in paragraph (O) of rule 1501:3-10-01 of the Administrative Code. A family member or members, including the original owner, may request one revision to certified forest land meeting the provisions in paragraphs (A) and (B) of this rule, upon the affirmation by the family member or members to the original agreement terms (FT-7) and forest management plan if applicable. Each new owner may apply for certification as specified in rule 1501:3-10-02 of the Administrative Code.

Last updated June 6, 2025 at 9:50 AM

History

Effective: July 1, 2023
Promulgated Under: 119.03

Ohio Adm.Code 1501:3-10-02

Lands certified as eligible by the chief for taxation in accordance with section 5713.23 of the Revised Code prior to November 7, 1994 shall remain certified as long as those lands comply with rule 1501:3-10-07 of the Administrative Code. No lands shall be certified as eligible by the chief pursuant to section 5713.23 of the Revised Code after the effective date of these rules unless lands meet the minimum qualifications of forest land and comply with the requirements of these rules.

(A) The forest land to be certified shall consist of a minimum of ten acres on individual or contiguous parcels and shall be: no less than one hundred and twenty feet wide; accessible for management and; meet the definition of forest land as specified in paragraph (P) of rule 1501:3-10-01 of the Administrative Code.

(B) The forest land to be certified shall have a forest management plan per rule 1501:3-10-04 of the Administrative Code.

(C) Forest plantations are eligible for certification that meet the definition in paragraph (R) of rule 1501:3-10-01 of the Administrative Code.

(D) If buildings exist on the forest land, the areas that are in total occupancy by the buildings shall be excluded prior to determining classification. In the cases of a homesite, a minimum of one acre shall be deducted from the total acreage prior to classification. Acreage contained in streams, rivers, utility and railroad rights-of-way, roads, and other non-forested strips shall be deducted from the forested acreage where they exceed, on average, one hundred twenty feet in width. Natural or man-made lakes and ponds shall be deducted where said structures exceed one acre in size. If acreage deductions are made from forest land pursuant to this paragraph, the remaining acreage must be a minimum of ten acres.

(E) Property lines and boundary lines between forest land to be classified and forest land not to be considered for classification shall be visibly marked by the owner prior to examination. The markings shall be made by one of the following: blazing of trees with paint, or installation of fence, posts or stakes or metal or plastic signs measuring at least 4 inches by 4 inches square or having a four inch diameter. Each mark shall be visible from the adjacent mark and no farther than one hundred feet apart. Posts or stakes used to meet the requirements of this paragraph must have a height of at least four and one half feet above the ground and be of a material that has a life-span of at least ten years when subject to the natural elements including but not limited to decay and photo-degradation.

(F) Lands from which a merchantable forest product has been cut or removed within three years prior to the time of application will be eligible for certification only if the removal resulted in an acceptable silvicultural practice as determined in the sole discretion of the division. The requirement of this paragraph is waived if the removal of the merchantable forest product was accomplished under a previous owner.

(G) Before forest land can be certified eligible under this rule, the owner must affirm their intent to engage in management as defined in paragraph (V) of rule 1501:3-10-01 of the Administrative Code, and must have completed the marking of property lines and boundary lines between forest land to be classified and forest land not to be considered for classification, as specified in paragraph (E) of this rule. Only lands engaged in management for three years are eligible to be certified under this rule.

Last updated December 18, 2025 at 8:52 AM

History

Effective: December 18, 2025
Promulgated Under: 119.03

Ohio Adm.Code 1501:3-10-04

All forest land qualifying under the provisions of section 5713.22 of the Revised Code will be managed according to a forest management plan approved by the chief. The owner will certify to the chief that the forest is being managed according to the approved management plan, at a minimum of every five years. The chief may cause an examination of the forest land to determine compliance with the forest management plan. Failure by the owner to comply with the provisions of the forest management plan shall constitute a violation of section 5713.26 of the Revised Code. If after notification of violation from the chief, and a failure to correct the violation within a one hundred and eighty day period of time, the chief will deem such failure cause to void the owner's declaration of intent in accordance with section 5713.26 of the Revised Code and the land shall be withdrawn from forest land tax reduction. Volations of paragraphs (B)(2) and (B)(6) of this rule are not subject to the one hundred eighty day curative period. Any such violation will result in the chief immediately voiding the owner's declaration of intent in accordance with section 5713.26 of the Revised Code, and the land will be withdrawn from forest land tax reduction.

(A) The forest management plan needs to contain the following information:

(1) Identification of the owner(s) of the parcel with address(es);

(2) Acres of eligible forest land and total acreage in each parcel;

(3) County and township of eligible forest land or municipal incorporation;

(4) Maps that include each of the following:

(a) Property boundaries indicated on an aerial photo or topographic map;

(b) Stands within the eligible parcel delineated as to number or letter and acreage on the aerial photo or topographic map defined in this paragraph;

(5) A listing of the stands that comprise all of the forest land to be committed to forest management. The listing needs to include the following information for each stand :

(a) A stand number or letter

(b) Forest type or tree species composition;

(d) Estimated acreage;

(e) Basal area or stocking level.

(6) The owner's general forest land management objectives;

(7) The property's potential for: (a) timber production, (b) wildlife habitat, (c) soil and water conservation concerns, and (d) recreation and aesthetic considerations;

(8) The management plan needs to include provisions incorporating best management practices, as defined in paragraph (D) of rule 1501:3-10-01 of the Administrative Code, to prevent nonpoint source pollution, erosion and minimize sedimentation of waterways in all commercial and non-commercial cuttings and all forest activities that directly or indirectly impact the forest productivity. All cultural and management activities will be executed according to accepted specifications that minimize nonpoint source pollution. Any activity deviating from the best management practices will be approved by the chief prior to the deviation.

(9) A work schedule for the duration of the plan, will contain all commercial and non-commercial cuttings and practices, road construction and other treatments needed for continued certification.

(B) The following are land management requirements and prohibitions:

(1) The approved management plan will prescribe non-commercial cuttings necessary to attain the production of the selected merchantable forest products specified in paragraph (X) of rule 1501:3-10-01 of the Administrative Code. Non-commercial cuttings scheduled in the management plan will be completed on a timeline approved by the chief.

(2) The owner will submit a forestry pollution prevention plan according to the procedure outlined in rule 1501:3-12-05 of the Administrative Code relating to forestry pollution abatement before any commercial cuttings are implemented. Notice of intent to harvest and a copy of the timber plan will also be provided to the division prior to initiation of the practice.

(3) Grazing in certified forest lands by domestic animals is prohibited.

(4) The owner will take necessary precautions to protect the forest land from wildfires including adherence to all practices proposed by the division of forestry to prevent wildfires.

(5) The owner will use cutting prescriptions under the advice of the division or a professional consulting forester provided they are consistent with the approved forest management plan and designed to assure the continuing production of merchantable forest products.

(6) The owner of certified forest land certified after April 1, 2004 will use a master logger to perform any commercial cuttings. The chief of the division of forestry may waive the requirements of this paragraph if such requirements place an undue burden on the owner of certified forest land and the waiver is obtained prior to the commercial cutting.

(1) The forest management plan will be submitted to the chief who will check the plan for compliance with the provisions of this rule.

(2) The forest management plan will be approved or disapproved by the chief. If disapproved, the reasons for such disapproval will be supplied to the owner or owner's representative.

(3) The owner may appeal in writing, within thirty days of its receipt, the decision of the chief. The chief will supply their decision to the owner in writing.

(D) Forest management plan amendments:

An approved forest management plan may be extended or amended by the owner with advance notice to the chief by filing a written request indicating the nature and substance of the change. The chief will determine the acceptability of the proposed change and will inform the owner, in writing, of its determination within thirty days of receipt of the request. If the request for change is not approved by the chief, the owner may appeal the decision, within thirty days of its receipt, by filing a written appeal to the chief. When a request for change is approved, the chief will inform the owner of the necessary administrative and technical procedures to follow.

Last updated December 18, 2025 at 8:52 AM

History

Effective: December 18, 2025
Promulgated Under: 119.03

Ohio Adm.Code 1501:3-10-03 Application process and fee.

(A) Each owner of forest land desiring to have land classified under the provisions of section 5713.22 of the Revised Code will apply for certification using forms provided by a division of forestry representative or the division of forestry website and will submit the forms to the chief.

(B) Each application, as defined in paragraph (B) of rule 1501:3-10-01 of the Administrative Code, shall be post marked or received by July first accompanied by a nonrefundable application fee of seventy-five dollars payable to the Ohio division of forestry. The chief may waive the application fee if such waiver is deemed equitable and justified.

(C) The agreement and request for classification of forest land forms, signed by the owner, shall be forwarded by the owner to the chief for review and approval. The signatures on the completed forms must be that of the person(s) meeting the definition of owner as specified in paragraph (BB) of rule 1501:3-10-01 of the Administrative Code.

(D) Upon receipt of request for classification of forest land (DNR Form FT-6) and one map with the property boundary delineated, the chief will cause an examination of the forest land. Such examination will be made at the convenience of the division and as soon as is practicable after the DNR form FT-6 and property boundary map are received and where property and forest boundary lines are marked according to paragraph (E) of rule 1501:3-10-02 of the Administrative Code.

(E) The chief will forward a copy of the signed agreement form (DNR form FT-7), map, and certificate of approval to the county auditor in the county where the eligible parcel is located. The auditor will then tax the property as prescribed by section 5713.23 of the Revised Code. Forest land that is certified by the chief prior to the tax listing date, will receive the tax reduction by the county auditors for that tax year.

(F) Contiguous parcels may be included on one application as long as the eligible forest land contained therein has the same owner. Should certification of forest land be denied, the owner may appeal in writing to the chief. The appeal needs to include the following information: owner name, county in which the parcel resides, parcel number, and reason for appeal.

Last updated December 18, 2025 at 8:49 AM

History

Effective: December 18, 2025
Promulgated Under: 119.03

Ohio Adm.Code 1501:3-12-05

(A) Any person who owns, operates, or is responsible for a silvicultural operation may develop and operate under a forestry pollution prevention plan developed or approved by the chief, the chief's designee, or the board of supervisors of the applicable district. The district shall approve or disapprove forestry pollution prevention plans and shall maintain a record of their actions. Plans may also be submitted by the owner or operator to the chief for approval. All plans shall be developed using a forestry pollution prevention plan form approved by the chief and meet the standards for forestry pollution abatement contained in rules 1501:3-12-02 to 1501:3-12-07 of the Administrative Code. Any portion of a forestry pollution prevention plan specifying control of forestry pollution shall allow the owner or operator to phase in installation of best management practices under a schedule approved by the chief or the chief's designee until compliance with rules 1501:3-12-02 to 1501:3-12-07 of the Administrative Code is accomplished.

(1) If the chief or the chief's designee determines that any person owning or responsible for a silvicultural operation is managing such operation in accordance with a forestry pollution prevention plan currently approved by the chief or the chief's designee, the person shall be considered in compliance with the state rules for forestry pollution abatement. In a private civil action for nuisances involving forestry pollution, it is an affirmative defense if the person owning, operating, or otherwise responsible for silvicultural operations is operating under and in substantial compliance with an approved forestry pollution prevention plan.

(2) In the event that the district finds that a forestry pollution prevention plan does not meet forestry pollution abatement standards as contained in these rules, the district shall provide a written explanation, by certified mail, listing all the deficiencies to be corrected, to the person who submitted the plan. Any person may appeal the district's decision to the chief. Upon such appeal, the chief shall review the plan for compliance with those standards and uphold the district's action or reverse it. If the chief reverses all or part of the district's action, the plan items pertinent to the reversed actions shall be deemed approved. In either case, the chief shall make such determination within thirty days of receiving the appeal and shall inform the owner or operator and the district of his decision in writing. Such notification shall include the reasons for the chief's decision.

(3) In the event that any person operating or owning a silvicultural operation in accordance with an approved forestry pollution prevention plan who, in good faith, is following that plan, causes forestry pollution, the plan shall be revised in a manner necessary to mitigate the forestry pollution, as determined and approved by the district board or chief.

(4) In the event that the district board determines that it lacks staff or expertise to adequately review a forestry pollution prevention plan, the district board of supervisors may submit such a plan to the chief for review and approval or disapproval.

Last updated December 18, 2025 at 8:50 AM

History

Effective: December 18, 2025
Promulgated Under: 119.03

Ohio Adm.Code 1501:3-10-05 Violations; withdrawals.

(A) As specified in section 5713.26 of the Revised Code, if an owner violates rules 1501:3-10-01 to 1501:3-10-06 of the Administrative Code, the chief will issue a notice of violation to the owner at least one hundred eighty days prior to notifying the county auditor of such violation, except paragraphs (B)(2) and (B)(6) of rule 1501:3-10-04 of the Administrative Code because violations of those provisions result in the chief immediately voiding the owner's declaration of intent in accordance with section 5713.26 of the Revised Code and the land will be withdrawn from forest land tax reduction. The chief may offer the owner an opportunity to meet with division representatives informally for the purpose of resolving alleged violations. If the parties can agree to a resolution of the alleged violations, then a written memorandum setting forth the terms of the agreement will be prepared and signed by the owner and the chief. The resolution outlined in this memorandum will be executed before the end of the one hundred eighty day period.

(B) A notice of violation may be issued for any of the following reasons:

(1) The certified eligible parcel or portion of the certified land thereof is converted to a use which precludes or is inconsistent with management of the land for production of a merchantable forest product;

(2) The owner fails to complete commercial or non-commercial cuttings that comply with the approved management plan for such parcel at any time during the commitment period.

(3) The owner does not maintain visibly marked property lines and boundary lines between classified forest land and non-classified forest land, as specified in paragraph (E) of rule 1501:3-10-02 of the Administrative Code.

Last updated December 18, 2025 at 8:49 AM

History

Effective: December 18, 2025
Promulgated Under: 119.03

Ohio Adm.Code 1501:3-10-06

(A) In the event a portion of the certified forest land is converted to a use for a purpose other than production of a merchantable forest product the owner will be required to obtain an amended forest management plan and revised certification of the portion not converted which will be subject to the requirements of forest land eligibility of rule 1501:3-10-02 of the Administrative Code. Failure to obtain an amended forest management plan and a revised certificate will result in the issuance of a notice of violation to the owner as specified in paragraphs (A) and (B)(1) of rule 1501:3-10-05 of the Administrative Code. If the portion of forest land not converted no longer meets the requirements of forest land eligibility of rule 1501:3-10-02 of the Administrative Code, the certification will be canceled.

(B) The owner of a certified parcel will not be subject to a notice of violation under this rule by reason of the fact that a merchantable forest product on the certified parcel or portion is, through no fault of the owner, damaged or destroyed by: fire, infestation, disease, storm, flood, or other natural disaster, accident, trespass or war. The owner will, as soon as practicable, provide the division with notice of such disaster, the emergency steps taken to cope with the same, and steps taken to ensure the future productivity of the forest. The forest management plan will be amended as necessary. If a merchantable forest product is to be cut or removed in connection with necessary salvage operations resulting from any such event, the owner will give prior notice of cutting to the chief. Nothing in this rule will be construed to subject any person to a notice of violation for immediate action taken in good faith in the event of an emergency.

(C) When certified forest land that subsequent to such certification comes under an ordinance, resolution, an easement or other restriction that prohibits compliance with rules 1501:3-10-01 to 1501:3-10-06 of the Administrative Code, the certification is canceled.

(D) Conversion of ownership

(1) When ownership of certified forest land changes through sale, deed transfer or any other means, the certification is canceled except that an ownership change to affect the transfer of a certified property to new owner, will not result in cancellation of certification upon the affirmation by the new owner to the original agreement terms (FT-7) and a forest management plan. A new owner affirmation will be accompanied by a non-refundable application fee of seventy-five dollars payable to the division, and a forest management plan approved by the chief. The owner will notify the chief when an ownership change as described in this paragraph occurs. When ownership transfers to a family member as defined in paragraph (O) of rule 1501:3-10-01 of the Administrative Code or as a result of death of the owner to their spouse, the application fee is waived.

(2) Certification for certified forest land will be canceled if the owner authorizes a lessee, a purchaser under a land installment contract or any other person to manage such land in a manner that is not fully consistent with the forest management plan approved under rule 1501:3-10-04 of the Administrative Code. The owner will notify the chief when a conversion of ownership as described in this paragraph occurs.

(3) When certified forest land is divided or split into two or more ownerships, the certification is canceled. except when certified forest land is divided or split by the owner to the effect the transfer to one or more family member(s) as defined in paragraph (O) of rule 1501:3-10-01 of the Administrative Code. A family member or members, including the original owner, may request a revision to the certification, if forest land meets eligibility requirements of rule 1501:3-10-02 of the Administrative Code, upon the affirmation by the family member or members to the original agreement terms (FT-7) and forest management plan. Additional family members who become new owners of portions of the original certified forest land may apply for certification if forest land meets eligibility requirements of rule 1501:3-10-02 of the Administrative Code.

(E) Forest land acreage may be modified to certified forest land without application. Modifications to certified forest land may be made through purchase or conversion from a non-forest land use. Together with existing certified forest land, modified acres must meet forest land eligibility requirements of rule 1501:3-10-02 of the Administrative Code. The forest management plan and agreement form (FT-7) for the certified acres must be amended to incorporate the modified acres as per paragraph (D) of rule 1501:3-10-04 of the Administrative Code.

Last updated June 6, 2025 at 9:50 AM

History

Effective: July 1, 2023
Promulgated Under: 119.03

Chapter 1501:3-12 Control of Pollutants from Areas Used for Agriculture or Silviculture

Ohio Adm.Code 1501:3-12-01 General provisions.

(A) Purpose.

Rules 1501:3-12-01 to 1501:3-12-07 of the Administrative Code apply to the control of pollutants from areas within the state used for silvicultural operations, including land being used as private, industrial, commercial, and public woodlands.

Rules 1501:3-12-01 to 1501:3-12-07 of the Administrative Code establish state standards for a level of management and conservation practices for silvicultural operations in order to abate excessive soil erosion or the pollution of waters of the state by soil sediment including pollutants attached to the sediment. These rules further define Ohio's forestry pollution abatement fund for landowners or operators to voluntarily install best management practices.

These rules are intended for use in determining the acceptability of best management practices used by landowners and operators of silvicultural operations. Technical determinations by a district, chief, or chief's designee shall be considered prima facie evidence of forestry pollution.

(B) Definitions. As used in rules 1501:3-12-01 to 1501:3-12-07 of the Administrative Code:

(1) "Best management practice" or "BMP" means a practice or combination of practices that is determined to be the most effective practicable (including technological, economic, and institutional considerations) means of preventing or reducing forestry pollution sources to a level compatible with water quality goals. BMPs may include structural and nonstructural practices, conservation practices, and operation and maintenance procedures.

(2) "BMPs for Erosion Control for Logging and Forestry Practices in Ohio" means the current edition of the publication "BMPs for Erosion Control for Logging and Forestry Practices in Ohio" prepared by the division of forestry, Ohio department of natural resources. Copies of this publication are available at local soil and water conservation district offices.

(3) "Chief" means chief of the division of forestry, department of natural resources.

(4) "Chief's designee" means any division of forestry employee, soil and water conservation district employee, or soil and water conservation district supervisor who the chief has given the responsibility to implement the forestry pollution abatement program.

(5) "Conservation" means the wise use and management of natural resources.

(6) "Cost-share monies" means state of Ohio public funds used for the purpose of sharing the cost of establishing needed pollution abatement practices.

(7) "District" means a soil and water conservation district and has the same meaning as section 940.01 of the Revised Code.

(8) "Division" means the division of forestry, department of natural resources.

(9) "Forestry pollution" means failure to use management or conservation practices in silvicultural operations to abate wind or water erosion of the soil or to abate the degradation of the waters of the state by soil sediment, including attached substances, from silvicultural operations.

(10) "Forestry pollution prevention plan" has the same meaning as a "timber harvest plan" as used in sections 1503.50 to 1503.55 of the Revised Code and means a written record, developed or approved by the chief of the division of forestry, the chief's designee, or the soil and water conservation district that contains implementation schedules and operational procedures for a level of land and water management that will abate wind or water erosion of the soil or abate the degradation of the waters of the state by soil sediment from silvicultural operations. The procedures in this plan should be consistent with "BMPs for Erosion Control for Logging and Forestry Practices in Ohio."

(11) "Person" means an individual, partnership, corporation, business trust, estate, trust association or other legal entity, or any political subdivision, instrumentality or agency of the state or the United States.

(12) "Prima facie evidence" means evidence adequate to establish a fact or raise a presumption of fact unless refuted.

(13) "Primary contact recreation resource water" means water that, during the recreation season of May first to October fifteenth, are suitable for full-body contact recreation such as, but not limited to, swimming, canoeing, and scuba diving with minimal threat to public health as a result of water quality.

(14) "Silvicultural" means activity that is associated with the art and science of controlling the establishment, growth, composition, health, and quality of forests and woodlands to meet the diverse needs and values of landowners and society such as timber, water resources, restoration, wildlife habitat and recreation on a sustainable basis.

(15) "Silvicultural operation" means forest management activities including but not limited to harvesting of timber, including the felling, skidding, on-site processing, and loading of trees or logs onto trucks; construction, maintenance and closure of forest roads and trails; thinning of trees; management and manipulation of forest conditions or species composition using mechanical methods, herbicides or prescribed fire, and planting of trees, including site preparation and maintenance.

(16) "Waters of the state" means all streams, lakes, ponds, wetlands, watercourses, waterways, wells, springs, irrigation systems, drainage systems, and all other bodies or accumulations of water, surface and underground, natural or artificial, regardless of the depth of the strata in which underground water is located, which are situated wholly or partly within, or border upon, this state, or are within its jurisdiction, except those private waters which do not combine or effect a junction with natural surface or underground waters.

Last updated December 18, 2025 at 8:53 AM

History

Effective: December 18, 2025
Promulgated Under: 119.03

Ohio Adm.Code 1501:3-12-07

(A) Issuing orders. When the chief or the chief's designee investigates a complaint and the owner, operator, or person responsible fails to implement a corrective action in accordance with paragraph (B)(5) or (C)(5) of rule 1501:3-12-06 of the Administrative Code, the chief or the chief's designee shall decide if an order will be issued. The chief or the chief's designee, may, upon obtaining agreement with the owner, operator, or person responsible for any land, public or private, enter thereon to make inspections to determine whether or not there is compliance with these rules. If agreement is not obtained, and there is reason to believe a violation exists, the chief or the chief's designee may apply for and a judge of the court of common pleas for the county where the land is located may issue an appropriate inspection warrant as necessary to achieve the purposes of this chapter.

(1) When the chief decides that an order shall be issued, the chief shall issue the order and afford each person allegedly liable an adjudication hearing pursuant to Chapter 119. of the Revised Code. The chief shall sustain the order if deemed appropriate after each person allegedly liable has had a hearing or has waived his right to a hearing. Each order shall be issued in writing and contain a finding by the chief of the facts upon which the order is based and the rule that is being violated. The order shall also specify the time period for correcting the problem, indicate what, if any, technical and financial assistance is available, and indicate what action will follow if the violation is not corrected.

(2) Penalties. Any person who fails to comply with an order of the chief is guilty of a misdemeanor of the first degree. Each day of violation is a separate offense. In addition, the sentencing court may assess damages in an amount equal to the costs of reclaiming, restoring, or otherwise repairing any damage to public or private property caused by a violation of the chief's order. All fines and monies assessed as damages under this section shall be credited to the forestry pollution abatement fund created in section 1503.55 of the Revised Code.

(3) Appeals. Any person claiming to be deprived of a right or protection afforded him by law by an order of the chief, except an order which adopts a rule, may appeal to the court of common pleas of franklin county. The attorney general of the state of Ohio, upon the written request of the chief, shall bring appropriate legal action in franklin county against any person who fails to comply with an order of the chief issued pursuant to paragraph (A)(1) of this rule.

(B) Danger to public health.

(1) In addition to the above action, the chief may apply to the court of common pleas in the county where a violation of a standard occurs which is a danger to public health for an order to cease the violation and to remove the forestry pollution. The chief may consult with the county or state health department, soil and water conservation district, engineer's office, Ohio environmental protection agency or other appropriate agencies. A danger to public health may include, but not necessarily be limited to the following situations:

(a) When forestry pollution threatens public or private drinking water supplies;

(b) When forestry pollution threatens a primary contact recreation resource water;

(c) When forestry pollution directly causes flooding of residential housing, commercial or industrial property, such that direct use of the property would be hazardous to public health;

(d) When forestry pollution threatens safety on public roadways; or

(e) Other situations as determined by the chief upon consultation with state and/or local environmental protection and public safety and health agencies.

(2) When there is a danger to public health because of forestry pollution, the chief may, without notice or hearing, issue an emergency order to correct the problem. The order shall be effective immediately.

(a) Prior to issuing an emergency order, the chief shall:

(i) Determine the extent of danger to public health and safety which may include consultation with local health and public safety authorities;

(ii) Determine that paragraphs (A) and (B) of this rule will not adequately protect public health, public safety, or natural resources; and

(iii) Encourage the owner or operator causing the forestry pollution to correct the problem voluntarily.

(b) Following receipt of the emergency order, the owner and operator shall comply with the order by stopping the pollution and removing the pollutants endangering public health or safety.

(c) The owner or operator may apply to the chief for a hearing. Such hearing shall be conducted as soon as possible, but not later than twenty days following application. The application shall be in writing and include the following information:

(i) The probable cause of the suspected public health or safety threat;

(ii) The date when the suspected pollution started;

(iii) Business or home address and phone number where the owner, operator, or person responsible can be reached during business hours to schedule a hearing; and

(iv) Be signed by the owner or operator of the silvicultural operation or business and dated.

(d) On the basis of the hearing, the chief or chief's designee shall continue, revoke, or modify the order. If no hearing is requested and/or the order is not complied with as determined by the chief, the chief or the chief's designee may enter upon private or public lands and take action to mitigate, minimize, remove, or abate the forestry pollution.

(e) Any owner, operator, or person responsible for causing or allowing forestry pollution is liable to the chief for any costs incurred by the division in investigating, mitigating, minimizing, removing or abating the forestry pollution problem. Reimbursed costs shall be deposited into the forestry pollution abatement fund and used as specified in rule 1501:3-12-07 of the Administrative Code. The chief shall keep accurate records of all costs to abate the forestry pollution including personnel, equipment, and disposal.

(f) No emergency order shall remain in effect for more than sixty days after its issuance.

(C) Forestry pollution abatement fund. Funds deposited in the forestry pollution abatement fund authorized under section 1503.55 of the Revised Code shall be used for paying the costs for emergency forestry pollution abatement actions. In addition to paying the costs incurred by the division under division (A)(3) of section 1503.54 of the Revised Code, the chief may make disbursements from the fund for any costs incurred by the division in investigating, mitigating, minimizing, removing or abating the release, spill or discharge. Money collected by the division of forestry for forestry pollution investigations, hearings, damage, repair, cleanup, mitigation and inspection are to be deposited into the forestry pollution abatement fund. Payments by persons so ordered by the chief or court are to be made within thirty days of the order to the division of forestry. If no attempt is made to repay the division for costs incurred or damages assessed within thirty days, the chief may request the attorney general to bring a civil suit against the person responsible to recover costs of the division and any assessed damages.

Last updated December 18, 2025 at 8:53 AM

History

Effective: December 18, 2025
Promulgated Under: 119.03

Ohio Adm.Code 1501:3-12-02 Erosion from silvicultural operations.

Each owner, operator, or person responsible for a silvicultural operation shall prevent pollution caused by wind or water erosion and apply conservation practices in accordance with the book "BMPs for Erosion Control for Logging and Forestry Practices in Ohio" which is available free of charge at all Ohio county soil and water conservation districts. The chief or chief's designee may approve other appropriate methods or management practices. Owners, operators, or persons responsible for silvicultural operations may file forestry pollution prevention plans with the division or the soil and water conservation district in the county where such operations are performed.

Last updated December 18, 2025 at 8:49 AM

History

Effective: December 18, 2025
Promulgated Under: 119.03

Ohio Adm.Code 1501:3-12-03 Forestry pollution abatement fund and cost sharing.

Cost share monies from the state may be available through the forestry pollution abatement fund to assist landowners and operators in installing needed best management practices which abate forestry pollution. Best management practices specified as eligible for cost sharing must require expenditures that are likely to exceed the economic returns to the owner or operator.

(A) The state, through the division, may offer to share the cost of establishing eligible best management practices. If other public funds are involved in cost sharing to establish an eligible best management practice or practices, state funds can be used only to the extent that the combined public funds amount to no more than seventy-five per cent of the cost of establishing the best management practice or practices.

(1) Eligible practices include those described in the book "BMPs for Erosion Control for Logging and Forestry Practices in Ohio" or other practices as approved by the chief.

(2) Restrictions on use of cost share funds include:

(a) Eligible practices which, through natural causes, have lost their effectiveness, shall qualify for further financial assistance. However, cost share monies will not be awarded to reestablish previously installed practices which have deteriorated due to operator negligence or mismanagement.

(b) Surface mined lands and oil and gas well drilling areas must have been reclaimed and be in active silvicultural uses as determined by the chief or the chief's designee to be eligible for cost sharing on needed best management practices.

(c) The chief or the chief's designee may only use cost share funds for those practices necessary to control forestry pollution or to fund periodic monitoring of best management practices conducted in accordance with standards establishesd in rules 1501:3-12-01 to 1501:3-12-07 of the Administrative Code, in accordance with paragraph (E) of this rule.

(d) Cost share funds will be available only to owners and operators with an approved forestry pollution prevention plan, if applicable.

(3) The chief shall determine best management practices eligible for cost sharing, percentage rates of cost sharing for each best management practice and the maximum amount of cost sharing for each best management practice. Information about eligible practices will be maintained by the division.

(B) All practices must meet the standards and specifications listed in the book "BMPs for Erosion Control for Logging and Forestry Practices in Ohio" or other methods approved by the chief or the chief's designee.

(C) If approved by the chief or the chief's designee, a person may use a more elaborate or expensive practice; however, cost-share grants shall be based upon the estimated cost of the least expensive acceptable practice.

(D) Operating procedures.

(1) Practice installation.

(a) A forestry pollution prevention plan as well as any necessary design, construction, or operation and maintenance plans shall be submitted to the chief or the chief's designee for approval prior to implementation.

(b) The chief or the chief's designee shall inspect practice installation.

(2) Cost-share payment. Once a project has an approved cost-share application, the practice has been implemented, and installation is inspected and approved by the chief or the chief's designee, cost-share payment shall be granted.

(3) Maintenance and management of cost-shared best management practices.

(a) Best management practices installed with cost-share monies are to be maintained in good operating condition to assure continued effective control of forestry pollution. Applicants for cost sharing must agree to care for, manage, and maintain such practices for their useful life as noted in the cost-share agreement. Failure to care for, manage, and maintain the practices shall obligate the owner or operator to full repayment to the division.

(b) If the land on which best management practices have been established with cost-share monies is sold, the new owner shall be responsible for maintaining the practices in good operating condition for their remaining useful life. The chief or the chief's designee shall inform the new owner of the responsibility to maintain and operate cost-shared practices.

(c) If the land on which best management practices were established with cost-share monies is converted to uses other than a silvicultural operation, the state may recover the cost share monies paid for such practices from the cost share recipient on a prorated basis, considering the useful life of the practice.

(d) The chief or the chief's designee shall monitor the management and maintenance of best management practices established with cost share monies. Any failure to manage or maintain such practices, or conversion of such land to other uses than a silvicultural operation, shall immediately be reported to the division thereby subjecting the cost share recipient to recovery of cost share monies in accordance with paragraphs (D)(3)(a), (D)(3)(b) and (D)(3)(c) of this rule.

(e) Upon discovery by the chief or the chief's designee, pursuant to paragraph (D)(3)(d) of this rule, the chief, after any necessary investigation determines that recovery of state cost-share funds is warranted, shall proceed to recover the cost-share monies pursuant to section 131.02 of the Revised Code, or other appropriate means.

(E) The forestry pollution abatement fund may also be used to periodically monitor the use and effectiveness of best management practices conducted in accordance with standards establishes in rules 1501:3-12-01 to 1501:3-12-07 of the Administrative Code.

Last updated December 18, 2025 at 8:49 AM

History

Effective: December 18, 2025
Promulgated Under: 119.03

Ohio Adm.Code 1501:3-12-04 Administrative procedures.

The chief will:

(A) Inform districts, their assisting agencies and other appropriate agencies of the state standards, criteria, and division policies for forestry pollution abatement and cost-share programs for assisting owners and operators to install best management practices.

(B) Enter into cooperative agreements with the boards of supervisors of districts to implement the forestry pollution abatement program. Such agreements shall spell out the responsibilities of both parties with respect to program implementation, administration and accounting, evaluation, recording accomplishments, quality control, and maintenance in obtaining compliance with rules and orders of the chief pertaining to forestry pollution abatement.

(C) Utilize the staff assistance of the districts and their assisting agencies to implement the state and other cost-share programs for installing eligible best management practices.

(D) Provide guidance to districts in planning, staffing, and administering the forestry pollution abatement program and the training of district supervisors and personnel in their duties, responsibilities and authorities.

(E) Implement the forestry pollution abatement program in a district in which the board of supervisors fails to negotiate an agreement with the Ohio department of natural resources to carry out the program.

(F) Reserve the right to implement the forestry pollution abatement program to resolve complaints.

Last updated June 6, 2025 at 9:50 AM

History

Effective: April 4, 2019
Promulgated Under: 119.03

Ohio Adm.Code 1501:3-12-05 Timber harvest plans.

Last updated December 18, 2025 at 8:50 AM

History

Effective: December 18, 2025
Promulgated Under: 119.03

Ohio Adm.Code 1501:3-12-06 Forestry pollution complaint process.

(A) Pollution complaints. Any person who wishes to make a complaint regarding nuisances involving forestry pollution may do so orally or by submitting a written complaint to the chief or the chief's designee. By written agreement with the chief, the district may receive complaints or investigate them to determine whether forestry pollution has occurred or is imminent. The chief reserves the right to assume responsibility to investigate and resolve any complaint. The district shall provide the chief a copy of any complaint received. The district also shall inform the division of the complaint and provide relevant information concerning the silvicultural operation. The district chief or chief's designee shall gather information pertinent to the alleged violation. This information includes but is not limited to:

(1) The location and description of property and waters of the state allegedly being damaged, if applicable;

(2) The nature and extent of damage;

(3) The alleged sources of forestry pollution;

(4) Any efforts made to obtain voluntary cooperation to eliminate the problem.

(B) Action initiated by the division.

(1) When the division finds an apparent problem of forestry pollution through its own observation, through notification by another agency, or through a complaint from a person, the division may investigate the complaint and shall inform the appropriate district of:

(a) The location and nature of the problem;

(b) The location and description of the silvicultural operation alleged to be causing the pollution problem;

(d) Any assistance needed from the district.

(2) When the division investigates a complaint involving a silvicultural operation that is allegedly not in compliance with the state rules for forestry pollution abatement, a representative from the division will contact the owner or operator and inform them of the complaint and explain the forestry pollution abatement rules and standards. The division may perform an investigation to determine whether or not there is compliance with this chapter.

(3) In order to investigate if there is a violation of the rules for forestry pollution, such investigation by the division shall include but need not be limited to the following:

(a) Identification of property boundaries, streams, water courses, wetlands, ponds, lakes, water wells, general topography, and general storm water runoff patterns, if applicable, including roof water;

(b) Observation and documentation of the nature and extent of existing or potential forestry pollution damage; documentation may include photographs, video recording and physical measurements; and/or

(4) When the investigation report indicates that the operation is in compliance with the rules for forestry pollution abatement, the division may offer to assist the owner or operator in preparing a forestry pollution prevention plan for the operation as it exists for submission to the district board or division chief to provide assurance that the operation is considered in compliance with the applicable rules.

(a) Offer information and technical assistance for developing and evaluating alternative solutions;

(b) Provide information on financial assistance available;

(c) Offer to assist in developing a forestry pollution prevention plan which complies with the rules of forestry pollution abatement; and

(d) Secure district or chief approval of the forestry pollution prevention plan to provide assurance that the operation, as it exists, is considered in compliance with the rules for forestry pollution abatement.

(5) Owner, operator, or person responsible for failure to cooperate in a voluntary solution.

(a) The division representative shall inform the district board of supervisors and the chief of the facts established by the investigative report, the succeeding action followed to seek compliance with the rules, and the action or inaction taken by the owner or operator. If the chief decides that a violation does exist and corrective action is needed, the chief will develop a compliance schedule and inform the person in violation by certified mail, that they have a period of time to proceed voluntarily to correct the violation.

(b) If the owner or operator has failed to implement the corrective actions in the time specified, the chief shall then decide if an order shall be issued.

(1) When a district, which has entered into an agreement with the chief for the purpose of implementing the forestry pollution abatement program, finds through a complaint that a silvicultural operation is allegedly not in compliance with state rules for forestry pollution abatement, a representative from the district will contact the owner or operator and explain the district role in the forestry pollution abatement program. Upon receipt of the complaint, the district shall give priority to conducting an investigation. If the district determines it is unable to initiate an investigation within three business days, the division shall be notified immediately. The chief or the chief's designee shall initiate an investigation of the complaint within three business days of notification by the district.

(2) In order to determine if there is violation of the rules for forestry pollution, such investigation shall include but need not be limited to the following:

(a) Identification of property boundaries, streams, water courses, wetlands, ponds, lakes, water wells, general topography, and general storm water runoff patterns if applicable, including roof water;

(b) Observation and documentation of the nature and extent of existing or potential forestry pollution damage. Documentation may include photographs, video recording and physical measurements; and/or

(c) Interviews with the owner, operator, complainant, cooperating agencies, and other witnesses, as needed. The dates and times of all investigations and interviews shall be recorded and kept on file along with a copy of the complaint. Copies of all investigation documentation related to the complaint shall be maintained in accordance with the guidelines provided by the chief or designee and be made available to the chief or chief's designee upon request.

(3) When the investigation report indicates that the operation is in compliance with the rules for forestry pollution abatement, the district representative may offer to assist the owner or operator in preparing a forestry pollution prevention plan for the operation as it exists for submission to the district board to provide assurance that the operation is considered in compliance with applicable rules.

(4) Owner, operator, or person responsible interested in voluntary, cooperative solution. If the investigation report indicates that a violation of the rules for forestry pollution abatement exists and the landowner or operator is interested and willing to seek a corrective solution, the district representative shall:

(a) Offer information and technical assistance for developing and evaluating alternative solutions;

(b) Provide information on financial assistance available;

(c) Offer to assist in the development of a forestry pollution prevention plan which complies with the rules of forestry pollution abatement; and

(e) Inform the owner, operator, or person responsible that if a corrective action is not implemented based on the implementation schedule developed in paragraph (C)(4)(c) or (C)(4)(d) of this rule, the district will review the complaint and determine if adequate progress has been made toward a solution. If adequate progress has not been made, then the division will request that the district refer the complaint to the division for resolution or possible further enforcement action.

(5) Owner, operator, or person responsible for failure to cooperate in a voluntary solution. If the investigative report indicates that a violation of the rules of forestry pollution exists, but the owner, operator, or person responsible is unwilling to cooperate in correcting the problem:

(a) The district representative shall inform the district board of supervisors and the division of the facts established by the investigative report, the succeeding action followed to seek compliance with the rules, and the action or inaction taken by the owner or operator. If the district board decides that a violation does exist and corrective action is needed, the board will inform the person in violation by certified mail of the period of time available, as determined and specified by the district, for the person to proceed voluntarily to correct the violation.

(b) If the owner, operator, or person responsible has failed to implement the corrective actions in the time specified, the board may choose to invite the owner, operator, or person responsible by certified mail to the next regularly scheduled board meeting or file a copy of their findings with the division and a copy to the alleged violator and to the complainant if appropriate, and request the chief to issue an order. These findings include:

(i) The investigative report by the district representative;

(ii) Any pertinent testimony by the person in violation;

(iii) A copy of the district's decision as recorded;

(iv) Alternative methods for correcting the violation;

(v) Practices needed and cost-share eligibility;

(vi) A timely sequence for application of corrective measures; and

(vii) A time period (specified by the district) for completion of all corrective and control measures.

Last updated December 18, 2025 at 8:53 AM

History

Effective: December 18, 2025
Promulgated Under: 119.03

Chapter 1501:3-13 Process Standards

Ohio Adm.Code 1501:3-13-01 Kindled fire waivers and certified prescribed fire managers.

(A) The chief of the division of forestry may issue waivers that expand the times and places for kindled fires as set forth in division (C) of section 1503.18 of the Revised Code to the following eligible persons:

(1) Natural persons certified by the chief of the division of forestry as an Ohio certified prescribed fire manager under paragraph (C) of this rule;

(2) Persons with a valid permit under agency 3745 of the Administrative Code and are burning materials with an air curtain destructor;

(3) Natural persons burning their own property who have obtained written approval from the local fire department having jurisdiction and who have submitted said approval to the chief of the division of forestry.

(B) After meeting at least one of the three eligibility criteria in paragraph (A) of this rule, eligible persons must then submit a completed request for a kindled fire waiver to the chief of the division of forestry that includes the following:

(1) The date of the request;

(2) The eligible person's name and mailing address;

(3) The address or geographical coordinates where the eligible person wishes to kindle a fire; and

(4) The eligible person's certification that the site where the kindled fire is to take place has a site plan that includes required weather parameters. The site plan shall include a description of the site demonstrating its suitability for natural resource planning, including:

(a) The fuel types to be burned (e.g., grass, leaves, brush, etc.);

(b) The equipment and personnel to be used;

(d) Worker and general public safety considerations;

(e) Notification plan for emergency services in the event of an emergency; and

(f) Any contingency plans.

(1) Certification. An eligible person requesting certification as an Ohio certified prescribed fire manager is required to submit adequate documentation to the chief of the division of forestry, demonstrating that the applicant has:

(a) A minimum of six hours of training in wildland fire suppression;

(b) A minimum of twenty-four hours of training in prescribed fire management; and

(c) Prior professional experience in the amount of at least ten wildfires on at least ten days, ten prescribed fires on at least ten days, or a combination thereof.

(2) Recertification. Once issued a certification number, an Ohio certified prescribed fire manager shall be issued a waiver under paragraphs (A)(1) of this rule if the person:

(a) Serves as the manager for at least two prescribed fires on at least two separate days over a five-year rotating schedule that begins after initial certification;

(b) Participates in an operational role for at least five prescribed fires on at least five separate days over a five-year rotating schedule that begins after initial certification; or

(c) Maintains a prescribed fire burn boss type 2 national qualification as certified by a national wildfire coordinating group member agency.

(3) Reporting. Ohio certified prescribed fire managers shall:

(a) Within one-hundred and twenty days of a completed burn, provide the chief of the division of forestry with a report of the results of any burn activities using a form approved by the chief of the division of forestry; and

(b) Within thirty days of a completed burn, provide the chief of the division of forestry with a report about any escaped fires resulting in a response from emergency service personnel or that could result in any criminal or civil actions.

(D) Waiver denial or withdraw.

(1) The chief of the division of forestry may deny or withdraw the issuance of a waiver to anyone otherwise eligible under paragraph (A) of this rule if the person:

(a) Endangered public safety;

(b) Violated previous waiver conditions;

(d) Conducted a burn without obtaining permissions required under Chapter 3745. of the Revised Code; or

(e) Does not satisfy the recertification or reporting requirements under paragraph (C) of this rule.

(2) The chief of the division of forestry shall issue any decision regarding waiver denial or withdraw in writing, which shall include:

(a) An explanation of the evidence examined and reason for denial or withdraw of the waiver;

(b) In the case of an Ohio prescribed fire manager, requirements for obtaining recertification; and

Last updated December 18, 2025 at 10:41 AM

History

Effective: December 18, 2025
Promulgated Under: 119.03