DOUGLAS COUNTY, Nev. – The Tahoe Douglas Fire Protection District (TDFPD) has announced the retirement of Fire Chief Scott Lindgren, effective June 1, 2026, following a long and distinguished career in the fire service and more than five years of dedicated leadership of the District.
Chief Lindgren was appointed TDFPD fire chief in December 2020 after an extensive career with CAL FIRE, where he served for more than three decades in operational and executive leadership roles.
During his tenure with the TDFPD, Lindgren highlighted the collaborative work toward wildfire preparedness and mitigation across multiple agencies. He championed wildfire mitigation efforts and advanced regional preparedness initiatives focused on proactively reducing risk and protecting lives, property, and natural resources, according to a press release on his retirement.
Lindgren is also responsible for launching the George Whittell High School Fire Science Program, providing students with hands-on exposure to the fire service and creating a pathway for future careers. He led the effort to transition all District response apparatus to Advanced Life Support (ALS) capability and 3-man engine companies, significantly enhancing the level of emergency and medical care available to the community. In addition, he oversaw the remodel of the Zephyr Crew quarters at Station 22 and successfully negotiated an agreement for crew quarters supporting the Shoreline Crew fuels reduction program, strengthening the District’s operational capacity and wildfire mitigation mission.
Lindgren told the Board of Trustees in the email announcing his retirement that he intends to work closely with staff and the board over the coming months to ensure a smooth transition of leadership.
“It has truly been an honor to serve the members of the Tahoe Douglas Fire Protection District and the community,” Chief Lindgren said. “ I am confident in the exceptional men and women of this organization and their continued commitment to providing the highest level of service to the public.”
Ben Johnson, chairman of the TDFPD Board of Trustees, issued the following statement: “On behalf of the Board of Trustees, I thank Chief Lindgren for his many years of service and leadership to our community. Chief Lindgren’s tenure was exemplified by a relentless focus on proactively addressing risk. His decision to retire marks the conclusion of a long and distinguished career in public safety, and I wish him the very best in his next chapter. The Board is committed to ensuring a smooth transition and maintaining the highest level of service to our community.”
Additional information regarding the leadership transition will be provided as it becomes available.