Tahoe National Forest implements fire restrictions

Effective June 1, residential burn permits will be suspended for Nevada, Placer and Yuba counties and fire restrictions will go into effect in the Tahoe National Forest.

Despite the recent light rain, conditions in the foothills and the high country remain unseasonably dry. Warming temperatures, dry winds, and very dry fuel moisture levels have prompted this early fire season response.

Anyone who burns in violation of the suspension will be subject to civil or criminal action and could face cost recovery charges for the fire suppression response. All fires or smoke reported will be considered a wildfire and a full suppression response will be dispatched to the scene.

In the Tahoe National Forest beginning June 1 campfires are not permitted in the backcountry, but only in developed campgrounds and other designated sites (in the metal rings/grills provided). Portable stoves, including those that use gas, jellied petroleum or pressurized liquid fuel are permitted in backcountry areas with a valid campfire permit. Propane-type barbecues can be used outside designated sites where camping is permitted, but charcoal barbecues can only be used in designated campgrounds. Smoking is only permitted in an enclosed vehicle or developed recreation site.

Internal combustion engines, including off highway vehicles can continue to be operated on roads or motorized trails and within the Prosser Pits OHV area.