USFS sets rules for Fourth of July

Possession of fireworks of any kind, including firecrackers and sparklers, is illegal in the Lake Tahoe Basin.

Campfires are not permitted on National Forest beaches or in the general forest. For those planning to barbecue on the beach, bring gas barbecues instead of charcoal.

The annual alcohol ban will be in effect at Nevada Beach, Zephyr Cove Resort, and Zephyr Shoals (the former Dreyfus Estate) from 6am to midnight on July 4. Additionally, county and state laws ban the possession or consumption of alcohol on the Truckee River from Tahoe City to Alpine Meadows and Chamber’s Landing Beach on the West Shore, from July 1-6.

These areas will be patrolled by law enforcement personnel from the Forest Service, Douglas and Placer counties, the Carson City sheriff’s Departments, and private security staff.

Traffic is expected to be heavy July 4 weekend. The Nifty Fifty Trolley stops at National Forest beaches along the South and West shores. At developed recreation sites, such as Kiva, Tallac and the Taylor Creek Visitor Center, parking is allowed only in designated parking spaces inside the parking lots, not along the roadway.

Day-use fees for the Fourth of July at Pope, Baldwin, and Nevada beaches will be $20 and at Zephyr Cove Beach $25 to cover increased security and facility maintenance costs of the holiday.

Pets are not allowed at National Forest designated swim beaches, including Nevada, Pope, Baldwin, Meeks and William Kent. Leashed pets are welcome at Kiva Picnic Area from Valhalla Boathouse/Pier to Tallac Point in South Lake Tahoe, Echo Lakes on Echo Summit, Zephyr Shoals and Hidden and Chimney beaches on the East Shore, Coon Street Beach (at the boat launch) in King’s Beach, and Kaspian and 64 Acres beaches in Tahoe City.

Trash cans may become full, so plan ahead and pack out all garbage.