Citrus County Lifts Burn Ban as Drought Eases

LECANTO, FL — The Citrus County Board of County Commissioners rescinded the burn ban for unincorporated areas on May 26, following Fire Chief Craig Stevens' recommendation that wildfire conditions have improved.

The ban took effect April 1 after the Keetch-Byram Drought Index reached 500, triggering an automatic restriction under county code. The Board extended it April 14 amid concerns over elevated fire danger, persistent drought, low humidity, gusty winds, and dry vegetation.

Recent rainfall and lower KBDI readings prompted the change. Stevens consulted with the Florida Forest Service before determining the dangerous conditions no longer exist.

"Conditions can become dangerous again quickly with dry vegetation, wind, and heat," Stevens said. "Residents should use caution with any outdoor burning."

State law and Florida Forest Service rules continue to govern outdoor burning. Residents may burn natural yard waste — leaves, grass clippings, brush, and tree limbs under 8 inches in diameter — without a permit. Burn piles must not exceed 8 feet in diameter or fit in a noncombustible container.

Fires must be at least 25 feet from homes and forests, 50 feet from paved roads, and 150 feet from occupied buildings. A person must remain present with water, a shovel, or other suppression equipment on hand. Burning is prohibited during windy conditions or Red Flag Warnings.

Burning garbage, plastics, treated wood, or construction materials remains illegal. Land clearing and agricultural burns require authorization from the Florida Forest Service.

Fire Rescue will continue monitoring conditions. Restrictions may return if fire danger increases. Water shortage restrictions remain in effect.