USFS implements fire restrictions in basin

Fire restrictions on National Forest System lands in the Lake Tahoe Basin begin July 1 and will remain in effect until the official end of fire season.

Campfires will be restricted to certain exempted recreation sites and other fire-related activities will be prohibited.

Illegal and unattended campfires cause more than 90 percent of wildfires in the Lake Tahoe Basin and increased fire danger due to the ongoing drought and warm summer weather is a big concern.

On National Forest System Lands, fire restrictions mean:

·         No open fires, campfires or charcoal fires are allowed outside of exempted recreation sites even with a valid campfire permit. Campfires must be built within agency installed and approved fire rings or grills. Lanterns and portable stoves using gas, jellied petroleum or pressurized liquid fuel are allowed with a valid California Campfire Permit.

·         No smoking, except within an enclosed vehicle, building or exempted recreation site.

·         Internal combustion engines are restricted to National Forest System roads, routes, trails and areas as identified on the LTBMU Motor Vehicle Use Map.

·         No possessing, discharging or using any kind of firework or other pyrotechnic device, using an explosive or operating a welding or other torch with an open flame.  All fireworks, including sparklers and firecrackers, are always illegal in the Lake Tahoe Basin.