Open fires and recreational fires are now banned in the Tahoe Basin | News

Effective Monday, June 17, all residential fire burning permits are completely revoked. In addition, open burning of any solid fuel is prohibited in the Tahoe Basin for the remainder of the fire season.

This ban/suspension comes into effect after CALFIRE AEU suspended burning permits for the season on Monday 10 June.

CALFIRE NEU then followed the same guidelines and completely suspended all residential burning permits for the season on Monday, June 17.

The suspensions prompted the jurisdictions of the North Tahoe Fire Protection District (NTFPD), Meeks Bay Fire Protection District (MBFPD), and Alpine Springs CWD to also issue a complete ban on all solid fuel recreational fires and open fires in their districts, effective Monday, June 17.

The bans/suspensions will remain in effect for the remainder of the fire season.

Following the adoption of the Fire Safety Ordinance 2022, ONLY natural gas (NG) or propane (LPG) fueled fire pits, grills and pellet grills/smokers are permitted outdoors year-round, except during Red flag/critical fire weather conditions.

All of these devices must be used according to the manufacturer’s recommendations.

Open flame devices such as tiki torches and all fireworks, including sparklers and firecrackers, are illegal in California year-round.

If there are reports of dangerous or illegal campfires, people should call 9-1-1.

Illegal fireworks activities should be reported to local police authorities.

All sources of open flame, including natural gas (NG) or propane (LPG), outdoor fire pits, grills and pellet grills/smokers are prohibited during Red flag/critical fire weather conditions.

Red flag Warnings and watches for critical fire weather in the Tahoe Basin are issued by the National Weather Service, Reno.

Authorities have issued some tips on preparing homes and properties for wildfires:

• Keep a distance of at least 1.5 metres from any flammable material around any structure.

• Keep the area at least 30 feet from the house neat, clean and green.

• Remove all dead and/or dying vegetation within 100 feet of all structures.

• Landscape with Fire resistant.

• Find alternative ways to dispose of landscape waste through chipping or green waste collection.

For more information on creating defensible space, tips for preventing wildfires, and ways to prepare for emergencies and evacuations, visit TahoeLivingWithFire.com.