OHIO FOREST TAX LAW (OFTL) | OHIO DEPARTMENT OF NATURAL RESOURCES

Certifies acreage as forest land in order to reduce property tax by 50%. Owner of the forest land must agree to protect and manage the timber thereon according to an agreement with the Division of Forestry. Any change in ownership invalidates the certificate; new owners must reapply.

Data provided by

211 Cleveland

Physical Address

2045 Morse Rd., Columbus, OH 43229

Hours

M-F: 8:00am-5:00pm.

Voice

(877) 247-8733

Fax

(614) 447-9231

Voice

(614) 265-6694

Website

https://www.forestry.ohiodnr.gov

[email protected]

Application process

May obtain information and application forms by writing the Division of Forestry, or by contacting appropriate regional Service Forester. (Website has regional Service Forester's contact information.) May also phone or email the Ohio Forest Tax Law Coordinator with questions or requests.

Fee

Fixed fee for final application.

Eligibility

Forest land must be ten acres or larger and no less than 120 feet wide. Land can be part of a larger tract, but tax reduction only applies to the forest acreage. Landowners must develop an approved Forest Management Plan, and clearly mark the boundaries of the property. Commercial orchards or Christmas tree plantations do not qualify. Other criteria apply; contact for full details.

Agency info

OHIO DEPARTMENT OF NATURAL RESOURCES

Provides protection, preservation and management of the natural resources of Ohio including state parks, forests, wildlife areas and nature preserves. Regulates fishing and hunting in Ohio.