Fire History
Alpine County is California's smallest county by population with significant high Sierra terrain. The 2021 Caldor Fire burned along the county's western border. The 2021 Tamarack Fire originated in Alpine County and burned extensively into Nevada. Despite sparse settlement, communities near Markleeville and along the Carson River corridor face fire risk from both Sierra and Great Basin fire environments.
Local Compliance Notes
Alpine County Fire Department and CAL FIRE Amador-El Dorado Unit share jurisdiction. Zone Zero compliance applies to structures in FHSZ areas. Given the county's very small number of structures and remote location, early contractor scheduling is essential. Contact Alpine County Fire or CAL FIRE for guidance on your specific parcel.
Neighborhoods in Zone Zero
Alpine County's small communities including Markleeville, Woodfords, Minden area communities, and along the Carson River and Highway 88 corridor represent the primary areas with FHSZ exposure.
Local FAQs
Are Markleeville and other Alpine County communities subject to Zone Zero? Yes — the Tamarack and Caldor fires demonstrated active fire risk in and around Alpine County. Structures in designated FHSZ areas must comply with Zone Zero requirements. Contact Alpine County Fire or CAL FIRE Amador-El Dorado Unit for guidance.