Hillsborough County, Fla. (May 12, 2025) - Hillsborough County today rescinded the burn ban for the incorporated and unincorporated areas of the county.
Due to the recent heavy rainfall and projected weather conditions, an outdoor burn no longer poses a risk to the health, safety, and welfare of County residents.
County Administrator Bonnie Wise signed an Executive Order today. County officials will continue to monitor the conditions and update residents as needed.
While the burn ban order has been rescinded, Hillsborough County Fire Rescue reminds residents to always take steps to prevent fires.
Prevention tips
- Obey the rules that prohibit unauthorized burns
- Avoid activities that cause open flames or sparks
- Properly discard cigarettes, and don't throw them out from your vehicles
To help prevent brush fires and wildfires, unauthorized burns are not permitted in unincorporated Hillsborough County, meaning all open burning is prohibited unless an authorization has been obtained. Burning yard waste, tree debris, and household garbage on private property is not allowed because it can lead to an uncontrolled wildfire.
Permits and exceptions
- Hillsborough County Fire Marshal's Office issues open fire permits for camp fires, bonfires, ceremonial fires, and religious fires. There are no fees from the Hillsborough County Fire Marshal's office for an open burning permit.
- The Environmental Protection Commission (EPC) issues open burning permits, such as initial land clearing of vegetation, initial land clearing for mineral operations, clearing of rights-of-way for public highways or roads, and clearing for flood control and water drainage channels.
- The Florida Forest Service can assist with burn authorization for railroad workers and farmers needing agricultural burning.
No permit is required if you have a small fire pit, like those sold at home improvement or other stores. When using a fire pit, these rules should be followed: burn only clean, dry wood, have the pit a minimum of 25 feet from any structure, and only use for keeping warm or cooking.
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