Hillsborough County Extends Emergency Burn Ban for Fourth Week

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Hillsborough County has extended an emergency burn ban on all outdoor open burning in the county for the fourth consecutive week due to continued dry conditions that are increasing the danger of wildfires. Since the beginning of January, 411 forest and brush fires throughout the state have burned over 11,483 acres.

Why it matters

The emergency burn ban is an important measure to protect public safety and prevent potentially devastating wildfires in the region. Hillsborough County has experienced a high number of wildfires already this year, underscoring the need for proactive steps to mitigate the risk.

The details

The emergency burn ban prohibits all outdoor open burning, including fireworks, sparklers, and fire pits. Outdoor grilling is still allowed as long as the flames are contained within a grill and the fire is constantly attended. The order can only remain in effect for up to seven days, but can be extended if the dry conditions persist.

• The emergency burn ban has been in effect for four consecutive weeks.
• Since the beginning of January, 411 forest and brush fires throughout the state have burned over 11,483 acres.

What’s next

If the dry conditions persist, the Hillsborough County emergency burn ban order can be extended beyond the initial seven-day period.