Florida Officials Urge Public To Burn With Caution And Care

March 19, 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.

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 FEATURE TOP STORY, Features, News