North Lake Tahoe Fire Protection District Announces Conclusion of 2026 Curbside Chipping Season on October 31 and Availability of Defensible Inspections
October 20, 2026 | Member Submitted
The North Lake Tahoe Fire Protection District (NLTFPD) reminds residents that the 2026 Curbside Chipping Program will conclude on Saturday, October 31, 2026.
“Curbside chipping is an important tool in managing vegetation and maintaining defensible space around homes,” said Division Chief Powning. “Residents who plan to participate this year should submit their requests by October 31. Meeting the deadline gives our crews time to review and schedule requests before the program pauses for winter.”
How to Schedule Pickup
Residents must request pickup online through the official NLTFPD Curbside Chipping page:
🔗 www.nltfpd.org/curbside-chipping
Program Guidelines
- Piles must be placed curbside and easily accessible
- Branches should be no larger than 6 inches in diameter
- Maximum pile size: 20 ft length × 6 ft height × 6 ft width
- No stumps, roots, garbage, nails, lumber, or pinecones
- Commercial piles are not accepted, these are piles created by a contractor or landscaping company, rather than by a homeowner
- Chips will be left on site for residents to use safely
Requests are typically completed within one week. Timing may vary depending on fire assignments or staffing availability.
Defensible Space Inspections (DSI)
Defensible space inspections can still be scheduled by calling (775) 831-0351, ext. 8130 after October 31. Please note, inspections are subject to weather conditions.
Final Reminder
Residents have until Saturday, October 31, 2026, to submit a chipping request. After that date, the program will pause for the winter season and resume in spring 2027.
Learn More & Stay Informed
For more information or to submit your request, please visit: www.nltfpd.org/curbside-chipping