Outdoor Burning
All recreational fires and gas fire pits require a NLTFPD Operational Burn Permit.
All open burning or pile burning is NOT PERMISSIBLE (closed on May 1, 2025).
- All Operational Burn Permits require an on-site fire inspection.
- Fire inspections for burn permits may be scheduled online here.
- All outdoor burning is not permissible on RED FLAG DAYS.
Please review below for more information and before scheduling an operational burn permit.
----------
Open Burning (slash pile or needle pile burning)
Status: Closed and Not Permissible.
- Open pile burning of wood, branches, or pine needles is NOT permissble at this time.
-----
Recreational Fires (Wood fire in non-combustible container and mesh screen)
Status: Not Permissible on Short Term Rental Properties.
All Other Properties: Permissible with permit.
- Wood fire within a non-combustible container and a 1/8” mesh screen to prevent broadcasting of wood embers.
- 30' separation from combustibles, structures, and vegetation, including pine needles.
- Charged water hose with nozzle and a 4A extinguisher within reach.
- Can only burn fire wood.
-----
Gas Fire Pits
Status: Permissible with permit.
- A predesigned gas fire pit connected to either natural gas or a propane cylinder.
- Manufacturer specifications must be reviewed and approved by the Fire District before permit issuance.
-----
BBQ's
Status: Permissible without permit.
- Propane, natural gas, or charcoal.
- Must follow manufacturer specifications.
-----
Other resources:
US Forest Service Campfire Restrictions
Northern Nevada Public Health (NNPH)
________________________________________________________________________________________
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
SUMMER FIRE RESTRICTIONS FOR INCLINE VILLAGE & CRYSTAL BAY, NV
As summer arrives in the Tahoe Basin, the North Lake Tahoe Fire Protection District (NLTFPD) reminds residents and visitors that seasonal fire restrictions are in effect to help reduce the risk of wildfire in our community.
Key Restrictions and Guidelines:
- Seasonal Open Burning Closed
Open burning of wood, slash, or needle piles is prohibited as of May 1, 2025. - Recreational Fires
Recreational wood or charcoal fires in a non-combustible container with a 1/8” mesh screen are permitted with a valid fire permit.
➤ Important: Recreational fires are not permitted at short-term rental properties. - Barbecue Grilling
Gas, propane, charcoal, smoker, and pellet grills are allowed and must be used according to manufacturer guidelines.
Outdoor Grilling Safety Tips:
To ensure safe use of solid-fuel, charcoal, or propane grills, please follow these important safety practices:
General Grill Safety:
• Only use grills outdoors—never indoors or in enclosed spaces.
• Keep grills away from homes, decks, eaves, and overhanging branches.
• Maintain a 3-foot safety zone around grills for children and pets.
• Clean grease and fat buildup from grills and trays regularly.
• Never leave a lit grill unattended.
• Always open the grill lid before lighting a gas grill.
Charcoal Grills:
• Do not use charcoal grills on combustible surfaces.
• Use a chimney starter with newspaper or only approved charcoal starter fluid—never other flammable liquids.
• Store starter fluid away from children and heat sources.
• Allow coals to cool completely before disposal.
• Free ash cans are available through NLTFPD for residents with wood-burning appliances.
➤ Apply in person at: NLTFPD Administration Office, 866 Oriole Way, Incline Village.
Propane Grills:
• Check hoses for leaks using soapy water—bubbles indicate a leak.
• If a leak is found, turn off the gas immediately. Call NLTFPD if the leak persists.
• If you smell gas while cooking, leave the area and call 9-1-1. Do not move the grill.
• If the flame goes out, turn off the gas and wait at least 15 minutes before relighting.
Red Flag Warnings:
No open flames of any kind are permitted during Red Flag Warning days.
Please also note: fire restrictions may vary on federal lands.
For the most up-to-date information on fire restrictions, permitted activities, and to apply for a recreational fire permit, visit:
🔗 www.nltfpd.org/outdoor-burning
Stay informed, stay safe, and thank you for helping protect our community.
###
________________________________________________________________________________________
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
SEASONAL OPEN BURNING TO CLOSE MAY 1, 2025
Incline Village, NV - Effective May 1, 2025, Seasonal Open Burning (wood, slash, or needle piles) will be closed for Incline Village and Crystal Bay, NV.
Recreational fires (wood or charcoal fire within a non-combustible container with a 1/8” mesh screen) are still allowed with a permit.
Barbeque grilling is still allowed, with the following guidelines:
All grilling appliances shall be used within the manufacturer’s guidelines and recommendations.
Follow these simple safety tips when using solid-fuel, charcoal, or propane grills.
- Only use propane, charcoal, and solid-fuel grills outdoors.
- Place grills away from homes, deck railings, and under eaves or overhanging branches.
- Keep children and pets at least three feet away from the grilling area.
- Clean grills regularly by removing grease and fat buildup from the grill and trays below.
- Never leave a grill unattended while in use.
- Open the lid on gas grills before lighting.
Charcoal Grills:
- Prohibited on combustible surfaces.
- Use charcoal chimney starters with newspaper or electric charcoal starters (with outdoor-rated extension cords).
- If using starter fluid, only use products labeled for charcoal grills. Never add fluid to an open flame.
- Store starter fluid away from children and heat sources.
- Allow coals to cool completely before disposing in a metal container.
- Free ash cans are available for residents with wood-burning appliances. To apply, visit the NLTFPD Administration Office at 866 Oriole Way, Incline Village.
Propane Grills:
- Inspect the gas tank hose for leaks annually using a soap and water solution (bubbles indicate a leak).
- If a leak is detected with no flame present, turn off the gas tank and grill. Have the unit serviced before use.
- If the leak does not stop, or if you smell gas while cooking, evacuate the area and call 911. Do not move the grill.
- If the flame goes out, turn off the gas and wait at least 15 minutes before lighting again.
Important Reminder: No open flames of any kind are permitted during Red Flag Warnings.
Please stay alert and follow local advisories.
For more information or to apply for a recreational fire permit or ash can, visit www.nltfpd.org or contact the Fire District Administration Office at (775) 831-0351.