Wildfire season has already started in the Tahoe Sierra, with local fire districts putting fire restrictions in place through the rest of the summer.
These restrictions prohibit most burning of fires and the use of charcoal and wood grills and fire pits, including on public beaches and in public parks. All burn permits are also suspended for the season.
Open-flame devices such as tiki torches and all fireworks, including sparklers and firecrackers, are illegal in California year-round.
During Red Flag Warnings issued by the National Weather Service, all sources of outdoor open flame including gas fire pits/grills and pellet grills/smokers are also prohibited. Check the Western Region Fire Weather forecast at wrh.noaa.gov. | tahoelivingwithfire.com
Forest Services lands | All U.S. Forest Service sites in the Lake Tahoe Basin remain under a year-round fire ban including fires in Desolation Wilderness or Meiss County; along the Pacific Crest and Tahoe Rim trails; in rock fire rings; on National Forest beaches and anywhere else on Forest lands. Enhanced fire restrictions may be implemented when dry conditions lead to increased wildfire danger.
Wood and charcoal fires may be restricted at developed campgrounds, as well, if fire danger increases. Check in advance of visits. Unless restricted, propane stoves and appliances with an on/off valve are allowed in all areas with a valid California Campfire Permit available at
readyforwildfire.org. | fs.usda.gov
Incline Village & Crystal Bay | Restrictions prohibit the use of solid fuel, which includes charcoal and wood. This includes in parks and beach charcoal grilling areas.
North Shore, West Shore, Olympic Valley & Northstar | The outdoor burning of solid fuels is prohibited. Only natural gas or propane outdoor firepits and barbecues and pellet grills/smokers are allowed except during Red Flag/critical fire weather conditions.
South Lake Tahoe & Lake Valley | Restrictions prohibit charcoal and wood fires in both county and city limits. The use of natural gas, propane, or pellet barbecue grills, smokers, and fire pits are permissible unless a red flag warning is issued.
Truckee | A campfire and charcoal ban are in effect. Gas barbecues and gas fire pits are allowed. Designated campgrounds are exempt.
Download our Wildfire Preparedness Guide at TheTahoeWeekly.com
