Florida Urges Public To Burn With Caution And Care

February 12, 2011

Officials with Florida Division of Forestry’s Blackwater District are urging residents in Escambia, Okaloosa and Santa Rosa counties to use caution if they decide to burn yard waste in the near future.

Since December 2010, the Division of Forestry has responded to more than 50 wildfire calls, more than half were the result of escaped debris burns. Despite recent rains, the forecast calls for pleasant weather this weekend and into next week. Fine fuels such as grasses and small brush which have been killed by winter frost and freezes and burn readily. Low humidity (less than 40 percent) and gusty winds cause these vegetative fuels to dry quickly. If grass feels dry to the touch, it will probably burn.

While there currently are no burn bans in our area, some cities and municipalities prohibit outdoor burning or require a special permit. If you are not certain about burning in your area, check with the Division of Forestry office by calling (850) 957-6145 and listen to the requirements and restrictions when prompted.

Click the graphic to enlarge and see setback requirements for burning.

Some tips and requirements to keep in mind before you burn yard waste include:

  • Legal burning hours are between 8 a.m. and one hour before sunset.
  • It is illegal to burn household garbage (including paper products), treated lumber, plastics, rubber materials, tires, pesticide, paint and aerosol containers.
  • Piles greater than 8 feet in diameter will require an authorization from the Division of Forestry.
  • Clear down to bare, mineral soil around your pile to prevent the fire from spreading.
  • Don’t burn on windy days.
  • Never leave a fire unattended – even for a moment. One gust of wind can cause a fire to escape.
  • Grass fires can spread quickly. Be prepared. Keep handy a water hose, shovel or other means to put out the fire.
  • Make sure the fire is completely out before leaving it – no smoke and no heat.
  • If your fire escapes, call for help quickly. Several minutes may pass before a fire department or the Division of Forestry can arrive on scene.
  • If your fire escapes, you might be held liable for the cost of suppression and damages to the property of others.

Minimum required setbacks to legally burn yard waste:

  • 25 feet from any forested area (grasslands, brush or other wildlands).
  • 25 feet from your home or other combustible structure.
  • 50 feet from any paved or public roadway.
  • 150 from any occupied dwelling other than your own home.

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Written by William Reynolds · Filed Under News