Safety Tips, Laws Apply For Burning Yard Debris From Recent Storms

February 20, 2016

In the wake of recent storms and tornadoes, officials with the Florida Forest Service are encouraging people to practice safe burning if and when they began burning yard debris and blown down limbs and trees.

The Forest Service regulates burning and there are several rules, regulations and tips that residents need to follow in order to stay safe, stay legal, and avoid undesirable impacts from smoke. These rules also apply within the town limits of Century.

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