Where To Find Free Firewood Near Me

Looking to keep warm this winter without burning through your wallet? Firewood prices can add up fast, but with a little effort and creativity, you can find free firewood near you. Here are some of the best places and methods to score free logs, branches, and wood scraps for heating or outdoor fires.

1. Check Craigslist, Facebook Marketplace, and Nextdoor

Many homeowners offer free firewood when they clear trees, renovate, or move. Search for listings under “Free” or “Firewood” on Craigslist, Facebook Marketplace, and community platforms like Nextdoor. Use search terms like “free logs,” “wood to haul away,” or “tree removal cleanup.”

Tip: Bring your own tools and vehicle as most people offering free wood want you to do the cutting and hauling yourself.

2. Ask Local Tree Removal Companies

Tree trimming and removal services often have leftover wood they’re happy to give away rather than pay to dispose of it. Contact a few companies in your area and ask if you can pick up their cut logs or wood chips. Some may even deliver for free if they’re already in your neighborhood.

3. Visit Construction Sites (With Permission)

Construction and renovation projects often produce wood scraps, pallets, and untreated lumber that can be repurposed as firewood. Always ask the site manager before taking anything, and only use untreated, unpainted wood as burning treated or painted lumber releases harmful chemicals.

4. Check with Local Landfills and Recycling Centers

Some municipal recycling centers or landfills have drop-off areas for yard waste and tree debris. Many will let residents take wood for free or for a small fee. It’s a great way to get seasoned logs or branches already cut to size.

5. Network with Farmers and Rural Landowners

If you live near a rural area, reach out to farmers or property owners. Many have fallen trees, branches, or storm debris they’d be happy for you to clean up. Offer to help clear fence lines, ditches, or deadfall in exchange for keeping the wood.

6. Ask Utility Companies

Power companies regularly trim trees around power lines and often dispose of the wood. Contact your local electric or utility company to ask if they have free firewood available from recent trimmings.

7. Visit Sawmills or Lumberyards

Sawmills frequently have piles of wood scraps, bark, and offcuts that they might give away or sell cheaply. These are often perfect for kindling or small fires. Just make sure the wood isn’t pressure-treated or glued.

8. Use Wood Recycling or “Free Firewood” Apps

Several apps and websites specialize in connecting people with free or low-cost firewood, including:

• Freecycle.org – Community-based trading for free goods.
• OfferUp – Local marketplace with a “free stuff” section.
• Free Firewood Alert (app) – Sends notifications when free firewood is available nearby.

9. Ask Your City Parks Department

After storms or seasonal pruning, city or county parks departments sometimes have piles of wood they’ll let residents haul away. Check your city’s website or give them a call to see if they have any free firewood pickup days.

10. Join a Local “Buy Nothing” Group

“Buy Nothing” Facebook groups are designed for neighbors to give and receive items freely. Firewood, branches, and yard debris often show up in these groups. Plus, it’s a great way to build community connections.

Safety Note

Before burning any free wood, make sure it’s dry, seasoned, and untreated. Avoid wood from pallets, furniture, or construction that might contain glue, paint, or chemicals. Properly seasoned firewood burns hotter, cleaner, and safer for your home or fire pit.

Final Thoughts

Finding free firewood near you takes a bit of effort, but it’s well worth it. Whether you’re heating your home or enjoying a cozy outdoor bonfire, these methods can help you stock up without spending a dime.

For more ways to save money on essentials, check out our other frugal living guides at SavingK.com.