City of South Lake Tahoe now has power to fine those violating "Stay at Home" order

SOUTH LAKE TAHOE, Calif. - The City of South Lake Tahoe issued an emergency order Friday morning, one that gives them the power to issue administrative citations to those who violate California Governor Newsom's 'stay at home' order.

“We are taking this crisis seriously and it is important that those who don’t, know there can be consequences to ignoring the Governor’s orders,” said Interim City Manager Brad Kilger, “This is about keeping our community safe, and that’s what this city is going to do.”

Part of Kilger's role for the city is as its director of emergency services.

During the City Council's special meeting on March 25 they directed Kilger to issue an emergency order to authorize administrative citations and fines for violations of the Governor’s “stay at home” order.

The City has been asking short-term rental owners to stop renting until further notice and this week El Dorado County issued the same directive.

Friday's order covers vacation home rentals as well as motel/hotel and campground stays, and other non-essential businesses that are still open to the public. The City is now authorized to issue citations and fines to any person or business violating the ‘stay at home’ order, including visitors at those facilities.

“The primary concern is safety here,” said Mayor Jason Collin, “We are going to do everything in our power to keep our residents safe. These are extraordinary times and extraordinary measures, but we know these steps will ensure people stay healthy and South Lake Tahoe comes out stronger when this crisis is over.”

This order was clarified by the El Dorado County Directive to Shelter in Place and El Dorado County Directive issued March 24 regarding the use of lodging facilities.

This is not a martial law situation and roads will not be blocked nor identifications checked.

The order allows a fine of $1,000 per day and each day of a violation could constitute a separate offense. City Council has asked for strict enforcement on this order so people should not expect a warning before receiving a citation.

“Please stay home and do your part to keep yourself, your loved ones and your neighbors safe,” said Collin, “We all have a responsibility to make sure we are not spreading COVID-19. We are stronger together, and safer apart.”

Those wanting to contact the police about a vacation rental violating this order can call the South Lake Tahoe Police department non-emergency line at 530.542.6100 or the vacation home rental hotline at 530.542.7474.