In years past, Santa Claus has found time in his busy schedule to ride the Chelsea fire truck around all the city’s streets. This year, that has to change.

Because of Chelsea’s growth, Santa can no longer drive around every street in Chelsea, said Chelsea Fire Lt. Don Williamson.

Instead, the Chelsea Fire Department will set up Santa Stops in different Chelsea neighborhoods. Santa’s fire truck will travel to each Santa Stop and take some time with the neighborhood children before moving on.

There will be more than 80 different Santa Stops, so Chelsea residents will get several opportunities to see Santa, Williamson said.

Santa will ride on the fire truck after the Chelsea Christmas Parade is over. The parade starts at 10 a.m. on Dec. 20, and the fire truck ride will begin at 1 p.m. The fire truck is expected to travel around Chelsea until about 7 p.m., Williamson said.

Although having Santa ride the fire truck around Chelsea has become more complicated, Williamson said it’s an important part of the Christmas season.

“It’s just become a tradition in Chelsea. It’s a good tradition that’s been going on now for a number of years,” he said. “The kids look forward to it. They grow up and stay in Chelsea, and then their kids look forward to it.”

To see a schedule of the Santa Stops and estimated times, go to cityofchelsea.com. The schedule should be posted by Friday.