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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. 

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Open Burning (slash pile or needle pile burning) 

Status: Closed and Not Permissible.

  • 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 3' 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 Pits 

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

 AirNow

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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.