News
December 2023 Newsletter
For a second year in a row, we’ve enjoyed a below average fire season, with early precipitation and no red flag warnings. This allowed us to move out of drought and end fire restrictions earlier than typical years, providing residents a long season of opportunity to burn green waste piles and harden their homes to wildfire.
Seasonal Fire Restrictions End October 9, 2023
The mild summer and good precipitation this fall prompted CAL FIRE to lift burning restrictions effective October 9, 2023, and the Fire Chief has lifted seasonal fire restrictions for North Tahoe Fire and Meeks Bay Fire Protection Districts effective the same date. Homeowners are permitted to use properly screened wood-burning firepits and chimeneas, and charcoal barbecues throughout the cold weather months unless high winds/red flag weather conditions prohibit safe use. (The outdoor burning of wood and charcoal is never permitted at Short-Term Rentals.)
Seasonal Fire Restrictions Go Into Effect June 26, 2023
On June 26, 2023, CALFIRE NEU is suspending burn permits for the season. This is the trigger that prompts North Tahoe Fire Protection District (NTFPD), Meeks Bay Fire Protection District (MBFPD), and Alpine Springs County Water District (ASCWD) to activate local fire restrictions that suspend the outdoor burning of solid fuels. The suspension takes effect Monday, June 26, 2023, and remains in effect for the duration of fire season.
Alarming Increase in Gas Leaks, Carbon Monoxide-Related Emergencies
North Tahoe Fire reports an alarming increase in gas leaks, Carbon Monoxide (CO) related emergencies and other hazard-related emergencies resulting from the repeated storms and heavy snow. Since January 1, 2023, hazard calls have accounted for nearly 20% of non-EMS incidents. Firefighters are on a mission to empower the public with information on ways to prevent snow-related emergencies by properly maintaining mountain homes.