Outdoor Burning
All open burning, recreational fires, and gas fire pits requires a NLTFPD Operational Burn Permit.
- All Operational Burn Permits require an on-site fire inspection.
- Fire inspections for burn permits may be scheduled online here.
Please review the information below before scheduling an operational burn permit.
Open Burning (slash pile or needle pile burning)
Status: Permissible at this time with permit. Closes May 1st 2025.
- Pile burning of slash (tree or shrub branches) or needles.
- All piles: charged water hose with nozzle and a 4A extinguisher and hand tools (rakes, shovels, or wildland fire tools) within reach.
- Slash piles
- 50' away from structures.
- No larger than 5' in height and 5' in diameter.
- 2' non-combustible zone (mineral soil) around pile.
- 30' separation from combustibles (shrubs and trees canopies).
- Needle piles
- 25' away from structure.
- No larger than 2' in height and 3' diameter.
- 2' non-combustible zone (mineral soil) around pile.
- 30' separation from other combustibles (shrubs and tree canopies).
Recreational Fires (Wood fire in non-combustible container)
Status:
- Not Permissible on Short Term Rental Properties.
-All Other Properties: Permissible with permit.
- Wood fire within a non-combustible container and a 1/8” mesh screen.
- 30' separation from combustibles, structures, and vegetation, including pine needles.
- Charged water hose with nozzle and a 4A extinguisher within reach.
- Can only burn fire wood.
Gas Fire Pit
Status: Permissible with permit.
- A predesigned gas fire pit connected either to natural gas or a propane cylinder.
- Manufacturer specifications must be reviewed and approved by the Fire District before permit issuance.
BBQ's
Status: Permissible without permit.
- Propane, natural gas, or charcoal.
- Must follow manufacturer specifications.
Helpful Links:
Northern Nevada Public Health (NNPH)
USFS Lake Tahoe Basin Management Unit
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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
SEASONAL OPEN BURNING TO CLOSE MAY 1, 2025
Incline Village, NV - Effective May 1, 2025, Seasonal Open Burning (wood, slash, or needle piles) will be closed for Incline Village and Crystal Bay, NV.
Recreational fires (wood or charcoal fire within a non-combustible container with a 1/8” mesh screen) are still allowed with a permit.
Barbeque grilling is still allowed, with the following guidelines:
All grilling appliances shall be used within the manufacturer’s guidelines and recommendations.
Follow these simple safety tips when using solid-fuel, charcoal, or propane grills.
- Only use propane, charcoal, and solid-fuel grills outdoors.
- Place grills away from homes, deck railings, and under eaves or overhanging branches.
- Keep children and pets at least three feet away from the grilling area.
- Clean grills regularly by removing grease and fat buildup from the grill and trays below.
- Never leave a grill unattended while in use.
- Open the lid on gas grills before lighting.
Charcoal Grills:
- Prohibited on combustible surfaces.
- Use charcoal chimney starters with newspaper or electric charcoal starters (with outdoor-rated extension cords).
- If using starter fluid, only use products labeled for charcoal grills. Never add fluid to an open flame.
- Store starter fluid away from children and heat sources.
- Allow coals to cool completely before disposing in a metal container.
- Free ash cans are available for residents with wood-burning appliances. To apply, visit the NLTFPD Administration Office at 866 Oriole Way, Incline Village.
Propane Grills:
- Inspect the gas tank hose for leaks annually using a soap and water solution (bubbles indicate a leak).
- If a leak is detected with no flame present, turn off the gas tank and grill. Have the unit serviced before use.
- If the leak does not stop, or if you smell gas while cooking, evacuate the area and call 911. Do not move the grill.
- If the flame goes out, turn off the gas and wait at least 15 minutes before lighting again.
Important Reminder: No open flames of any kind are permitted during Red Flag Warnings.
Please stay alert and follow local advisories.
For more information or to apply for a recreational fire permit or ash can, visit www.nltfpd.org or contact the Fire District Administration Office at (775) 831-0351.