How often should I have my chimney cleaned?

We recently bought a home with a wood-burning fireplace and had it inspected and cleaned. The technician recommended having it cleaned and inspected every 30-45 burns. Is that true? That seems like 2-3 cleanings and inspections per year! I always thought once a year was enough.

Once a year is enough. It depends on how often you use it and the type of wood you burn. If you're using it almost daily or burning pine, it's important to sweep it annually. If you use it occasionally, sweeping it every other year should be sufficient.