County under burn ban

Alachua County has declared a burn ban due to wildland fire conditions and the area’s weather forecast.  The ban will remain in effect until formally terminated by the Alachua County Board of County Commissioners.

The mandatory burn ban affects all of Alachua County, including rural and municipal areas.  The ban prohibits the use of any fireworks, sparklers, flares, or other pyrotechnic devices except as provided by law for public displays requiring a permit and all outdoor burning that has not been specifically permitted by the Florida Division of Forestry.  The ban does not affect agricultural burning permitted by the Florida Division of Forestry for land clearing or prescribed burning purposes.

Although the use of LPG/LNG grills and charcoal grills is permitted, the public is encouraged to keep a constant watch for any stray sparks or embers while cooking outdoors. But due to the potential for accidental ignitions, the use of motorized equipment such as ATVs and dirt bikes is discouraged during times of high wildfire risk.  Lawnmowers, both push and riding, also pose accidental ignition risks. Residents are asked to exercise extreme caution during the burn ban.

Any burning within the County during the imposed ban will be in violation of Alachua County ordinance 86-1, sections 10.08 and 10.09 and section 252.50 of Florida Statutes. It will be considered a second-degree misdemeanor, punishable by up to a 60-day imprisonment and up to a $500 fine. All County and municipal law enforcement agencies are authorized to enforce the ordinance.

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