Forest Service to lift burn ban, fire restrictions in Lake Tahoe Basin

With the arrival of cooler, wetter weather, the U.S. Forest Service Lake Tahoe Basin Management Unit will lift fire restrictions for Forest Service managed lands Wednesday, October 23, 2012. Additionally, Forest Service fire chief Kit Bailey, in conjunction with local fire chiefs, will open residential burning the same day.

Although the Forest Service is lifting the additional fire restrictions imposed in the summer, the Lake Tahoe Basin Management Unit adopted a set of fire regulations in 2004 that restricts where campfires are allowed year-round. Most of the Lake Tahoe backcountry is essentially stove only and a valid campfire permit is required. This same regulation applies within the Desolation Wilderness, where a "stove only" regulation has been in place for more than ten years. Developed campgrounds usually allow for campfires year-round in the facilities provided.

To obtain more information about backcountry fire regulations and how to obtain a campfire permit, call the Forest Supervisor's office in South Lake Tahoe at (530) 543-2694. To learn more about residential burning, local restrictions and permits, contact your local fire department or fire protection district.

Even when fire restrictions end, the Forest Service asks residents and visitors to continue to use caution with campfires, camp stoves, barbecue grills and cigarette smoking.