I have two logs that are rotting because of water bouncing back up on them (you can poke a finger all the way through them). I have asked USFS if I can extend the porch overhang to stop this from happening, they responded that "due to the nature of the request we have to submit this for staff and SHPO review/approval. This would most likely happen after the first of the year." OK, so I have to wait.

When I stated that I would like to repair the logs (bottom load bearing ones), they replied, "According to the guidelines, it says “after forest service approval”, maintain and repair the original siding and trim, using matching materials, design, details, and approved colors. If the siding has deteriorated beyond repair, replace them with new materials that match the original." 

I am confused by this, does this mean that every time we want to oil our logs, fix the chinking, repair a window sill, etc we have to get approval? We are not allowed to maintain anything  on  the  outside without  approval? And what if they say no? Then we have to just leave the issues to continue to deteriorate?

Thanks for any input.

No responses yet from anyone here but I will add that I just received a follow up email concerning repairing the logs:

" I need an actual materials list. If you have photos of the materials that will be purchased and used that is even better, even if they are just from a website like Home Depot or wherever you plan on purchasing. I will send that list to the archaeologist and the district ranger for review. They will most likely need a pre-inspection before any work is started and a post-inspection as well."

Does this seem right? This is insane if any time we need to make a repair we have to go through this.

Forest Service practices vary from Forest to Forest.  Most Forests allow the cabin owner to perform maintenance and "minor" repairs using in-kind materials and colors to match the existing cabin materials and colors without approval.  Some even define what a minor repair is, such as roof or siding repair if less than xx square feet. There is also the concept of an emergency repair which is defined as an immediate repair necessary to avoid further damage to the cabin. As an example, if a falling tree limb poked a hole in a cabin roof, the owner would be allowed to repair/patch the roof to prevent further damage without waiting for pre-approval. There is more sensitivity if the cabin is historic so that repairs utilize materials as close as possible to the original materials to maintain the historic appearance. 

I can't speak for the Forest where you cabin is located, but I have performed routine maintenance and minor repairs on my cabin without seeking any approvals. I've never been challenged on my repairs. I have carefully used materials and colors that matched my cabin and my repairs generally weren't noticeable once completed. I would seek approval for any major repairs, such as replacing a roof or replacing a deck but not for a minor repair such as replacing a few boards on a deck.

Doug Gann
NFH Past President

Thank your the response Doug. Beyond saying I need permission to repair a section of log that is 7"x22", I am being told they want a ;its of materials (and once provided that they then wanted pictures of the materials if possible and more detail) - I gave the list as native stone, log, chinking and log oil/stain). I was then told I would have to have an archaeologist review it (even though there will be no ground disturbance). This seems to be overkill for the necessary work and the fact that our permits say we are supposed to maintain our structures/.