RE: Low Cost, simple, safe Tree Stands you make in Y-Tree
In your state then and on public land, these stands are not good for you.
As for puncture the trees, there are work arounds for that such as drilling holes near the Y and using 3/8" rope to tie it to the tree. Another option is to drill 2 holes near the Y for U bolts, another option is to use 2 lb mall and pound the Y-board into the Y-tree so it doesn't "pop" out. So there are work arounds for private land where you don't want to damage trees. The steps do not damage the trees and are very safe. Good hunting.
Chap Gleason