Tahoe National Forest and Sierra County Fire Restrictions Take Effect

SIERRA COUNTY — Today, the Tahoe National Forest entered Stage II fire restrictions. The restrictions are broadly similar to those of the Plumas National Forest, which are already in effect, with the following actions banned:

Building, maintaining, attending, or using a fire, campfire, or stove fire, except within a charcoal grill or fire ring provided within a recreation site maintained by a campground host.

Smoking, except within an enclosed vehicle or building, within a recreation site maintained by a campground host, or while stopped in an area at least three feet in diameter that is barren or cleared of all flammable material.

Operating an internal combustion engine off paved, gravel, or dirt National Forest System roads and trails, except within the Prosser Pits Developed Off-Highway Vehicle Area, and boats on a water surface.

Welding, or operating an acetylene or other torch with open flame.

The restrictions and a list of designated recreation sites with a campground host are available at https://www.fs.usda.gov/r05/tahoe/alerts/stage-2-fire-restrictions. Certain exceptions apply for individuals possessing a valid California campfire permit, including for the use of a portable campfire, stove, or lantern burning gas, kerosene, jellied petroleum, or pressurized liquid fuels, as long as the device has a shut-off valve. Campfire permits are available for free at permit.preventwildfiresca.org or in-person at Tahoe National Forest Visitors Centers.

The Tahoe National Forest’s order also triggers fire restrictions within Sierra County due to an ordinance passed in 2024. The ordinance restricts building, maintaining, attending, or using an outdoor fire within Sierra County, excluding the City of Loyalton.

Personal barbecues and smokers fueled by propane or compressed wood chips are exempt from Sierra County’s restrictions, provided they are placed on a non-combustible surface and are clear of combustible material overhead. Professional barbecues and smokers must follow the same guidelines and be at least 30 feet clear of any ignition source. Personal propane heaters, except for “torpedo heaters,” are allowed, provided they are placed on a non-combustible surface, clear of overhead ignition sources, and are continuously monitored.