Short Term Rentals (STR)

In accordance with Washoe County guidelines, the NLTFPD will conduct a defensible space inspection for all short-term rental applications in Incline Village/Crystal Bay that do not have a current compliant inspection. Occupancies with fire protection systems (e.g., fire sprinklers or monitored fire alarm systems) will receive a fire and life safety inspection to ensure the system(s) have been inspected and serviced annually. Systems shall be serviced by a fire protection contractor that is licensed in the State of Nevada and certified by the State Fire Marshal’s Office. The owner or owner’s representative shall be on-site for inspections conducted by NLTFPD.

To schedule an appointment please contact an NLTFPD Inspector at 775-833-8107.

What to expect from the STR Inspection Form.

Have questions about STR inspections? We’ve got the answers.

Q: What should a homeowner expect during an STR inspection?

A: In accordance with Washoe County guidelines, the NLTFPD will conduct a defensible space inspection for all short-term rental applications in Incline Village/Crystal Bay that do not have a current compliant inspection. Occupancies with fire protection systems (e.g., fire sprinklers or monitored fire alarm systems) will receive a fire and life safety inspection to ensure the system(s) have been inspected and serviced annually. Systems shall be serviced by a fire protection contractor that is licensed in the State of Nevada and certified by the State Fire Marshal’s Office. The owner or owner’s representative shall be on-site for inspections conducted by NLTFPD.

Learn more about the STR Inspection Form...

Q: What are the defensible space requirements for an STR property?

A: The fire district is located in an Extreme Hazard wildfire environment which requires a defensible space evaluation (DSE) for all homes. The DSE provides the homeowner with information to reduce wildland fire risks on the exterior of the home and surrounding property. Exterior smoking locations should be clearly marked with cigarette disposal cans with lids. Ash cans may be obtained from NLTFPD.

Learn how to create and improve a defensible space and about the ash can program.

Q: What is the fire extinguisher requirement for an STR property?

A: Fire extinguishers are required on each level; the minimum size for fire extinguishers is 2-A:10-B:C. Extinguishers shall be mounted unless they are clearly identified on the posted safety plan. Extinguishers shall be serviced and tagged annually.

Learn more about fire extinguishers

Q: What are the requirements for carbon monoxide detectors and smoke alarms in an STR?

A: Carbon monoxide detection and smoke alarms shall be installed in accordance with the currently adopted fire and building codes as well as the National Fire Protection Association Standard 72. Some of the basic requirements are as follows:

Carbon monoxide detection shall be installed on each level in the home, outside each separate sleeping area, and in sleeping areas equipped with a fuel-burning appliance.
Smoke alarms shall be installed on each level in the home, outside each sleeping area, and within each room used for sleeping purposes.
Alarms shall be checked after each rental to ensure they have not been tampered with.
Alarms shall be tested monthly, replace batteries every six (6) months.
Replace smoke alarms every ten (10) years, or sooner; carbon monoxide detectors every five (5)- ten (10) years, follow manufacturer recommendations.
A monitored fire alarm system is required for all Tier 2 and Tier 3 rentals.

Q: What is the requirement for an emergency escape ladder for an STR property?

A: When egress windows or openings are located more than 16-feet above an exterior finished grade as a measure to the finished sill of the window, or if the lot has extenuating features as determined by the code officials, a safe landing area shall be provided, and an emergency ladder shall be permanently fastened to the inside of the wall per the manufacturer’s recommendations.

Q: What is recommended to allow for the Fire Department to access your home during an emergency?

A: Residential Knox Box allows first responders to enter the home quickly and makes the re-securing of the property easier and faster. Knox Boxes reduces the need for forced entry and related property damage. These boxes are specifically coded for NLTFPD.

Q: Are barbeques or recreational fires allowed at STR properties?

A: Yes, barbeques are allowed and should be used in accordance with manufacturer recommendations – no permit required.

Outdoor recreational fires and fire features (such as fire pits or other open flame devices) that are fueled by natural gas or propane are allowed and require an operational permit issued by NLTFPD. Operational permits are issued to the property owner only and can be obtained by contacting NLTFPD, 775 831-0351. Solid fuels, such as woodburning outdoor recreational fires are prohibited.

PLEASE NOTE: The use of open flame devices are prohibited during fire restrictions and on RED FLAG days.

Learn more about Fire Weather and Burn Status.

Q: What are the steps for Emergency Preparedness?

A: Occupants shall be provided with basic information to safely evacuate your home during an emergency. STRs shall provide educational materials including:

An Escape Plan with exit locations and emergency phone numbers
A copy of the NLTFPD Vacation Rental Safety Information Sheet
The Incline Village/Crystal Bay Emergency Preparedness Guide
- Community evacuation routes, shelter locations
- Avalanche and earthquake warning information

Learn more about Emergency Preparedness

STAYING AT AN STR? BE AN INFORMED GUEST

Peer-to-peer hospitality services, such as Airbnb, Vacation Rentals by Owner, and other types of vacation rentals are not regulated in the same way as hotels. Requirements vary widely across jurisdictions. Act as your own safety advocate and know before you go. Be sure the following safety measures are addressed.