Current Local Conditions

A burn ban is currently in effect for residents of unincorporated Osceola County. While a burn ban is in effect, open outdoor burning of any kind is prohibited. Please see below for additional information:

What is a Burn Ban?

A burn ban is a temporary local measure implemented to reduce wildfire risk in our community during periods where environmental conditions are especially favorable for wildfire hazards.

What creates high wildfire risk?

Environmental factors, including extended dry conditions with low rainfall, low relative humidity, high temperatures, and gusty winds create the greatest community-wide risk for wildfires. Dry conditions are determined using the Keetch-Byram Drought Index (KBDI), which measures the relative dryness of the soil and “duff” vegetation layers throughout the area. During these periods, even small embers can quickly escalate into serious emergencies.

What is prohibited during a burn ban?

Open outdoor burning of any kind is prohibited during a burn ban. This includes campfires, fire pits, pit-style grills, trash burning, or any other ground-based burning. Discharging of fireworks is also prohibited during a burn ban. Outdoor cooking in contained, above-ground grills (charcoal, gas, or electric) is still permitted, but should be done safely away from any vegetation or wooded areas.

How can I reduce wildfire risk around my home?

The best way to reduce wildfire risk around your home is by creating “defensible space” by keeping grass cut low, removing dead vegetation from your yard, trimming trees back, and keeping plants from touching structures. Other safe practices, including proper disposal of cigarettes and avoiding parking hot vehicles over tall grass, will also reduce the risk of accidental wildfire hazards.

When will the Burn Ban be lifted?

A burn ban is lifted when environmental conditions, as measured by the Keetch-Byram Drought Index (KBDI), have shown improvement for an extended period of time – at least seven (7) days.

Current Wildfire Information

Click the button above to find County-enacted burn bans, active wildfires, the current fire danger index, and more.

Open Burning Regulations

Florida law restricts open outdoor burning to recreational (e.g. bonfires), residential yard waste, residential tree cutting debris, and residential land clearing debris burns that meet specific requirements. Click HERE to learn more about what kinds of open burning are permitted, and the requirements for open burning in each category.

The Florida Forest Service regulates the vast majority of open burning in Florida. In addition to the requirements laid out in Florida law, some types of open burning require a Burn Authorization from FFS. Click HERE for information on open burning requirements from the Florida Forest Service and how to apply for a Burn Authorization.