§ 36-1-112 — Cutting of timber by lessee of state lands prohibited; general penalty for violations; damages

(a) The lessee of state lands shall in no case be allowed
to cut or use more timber therefrom, than shall be necessary for
the improvement of such lands, or for fuel for the use of the
family of the lessee. The director may, in his discretion and
subject to criteria established by the board, sell and dispose
of timber located or growing on state lands, at not less than
the reasonable market value thereof.
(b) Removal of forest products from state lands is
permitted only under a valid contract or small sale permit. Any
person who knowingly or with reckless disregard removes forest
products from state lands without proper authorization is guilty
of a misdemeanor and shall be fined not more than seven hundred
fifty dollars ($750.00), imprisoned for not more than six (6)
months, or both. In addition to these penalties, a person
removing forest products from state lands without proper
authorization is liable for damages up to the amount of three
(3) times the bid value of the most recent auction of similar
species and product, or the appraised value whichever is
greater, plus actual restoration and administrative costs.