Jacksonville Lifts Emergency Burn Ban

Jacksonville Fire and Rescue Department lifted its emergency burn ban effective immediately, Fire Chief Percy Golden II announced Tuesday, following improved weather conditions and reduced wildfire risk across Northeast Florida.

The National Weather Service, Florida Forest Service, and the city's Emergency Preparedness Division consulted on the decision. Recent rainfall raised humidity levels and lowered the Keetch-Byram Drought Index, which measures soil moisture, below 450.

"Conditions have improved enough in Duval County that lifting the ban is the right call," Golden said.

Fire danger across the region is currently low, though drought conditions persist. Golden said JFRD will continue monitoring conditions closely.

Jacksonville's year-round open burning regulations remain in effect. Residents still need a permit for outdoor burning under Jacksonville Municipal Code Section 420.201.

Residents can follow JaxReady on social media or visit JaxReady.com for fire condition updates.