Citrus County Lifts Burn Ban as Drought Eases

INVERNESS, Fla. — The Citrus County Board of County Commissioners rescinded the burn ban for unincorporated areas effective May 26, following Fire Chief Craig Stevens' recommendation based on improved conditions.

The ban took effect April 1 when the Keetch-Byram Drought Index reached 500, triggering automatic restrictions under county code. On April 14, commissioners extended the ban citing elevated fire danger, persistent drought, low humidity, gusty winds, and dry vegetation. Recent rainfall, lower KBDI readings, and improved vegetation moisture conditions reversed those threats.

Stevens cautioned that conditions can deteriorate quickly. "Residents should still use caution and common sense with any outdoor burning," he said.

Florida law and Forest Service requirements continue to govern outdoor burning. Yard waste burning — leaves, grass clippings, brush, and tree limbs under 8 inches in diameter — requires no permit if conducted under these guidelines:

Burn piles cannot exceed 8 feet in diameter or must fit in a noncombustible container. Fires must sit at least 25 feet from homes, forests, or combustible structures; at least 50 feet from paved public roads; and at least 150 feet from other occupied buildings. A person must remain present with a charged water hose, shovel, or other fire suppression equipment nearby. Burning is prohibited during windy conditions or Red Flag Warnings.

Burning garbage, construction materials, plastics, treated wood, or prohibited items remains illegal. Residents needing larger burns or conducting agricultural or land-clearing burns must obtain authorization from the Florida Forest Service.

Citrus County Fire Rescue will continue monitoring conditions and may reinstate restrictions if fire danger increases. Water shortage restrictions remain in effect.