Burn ban and wildfire risk in Brevard County, Florida

Image Courtesy of Brevard County Fire Rescue

Brevard County has enacted a countywide burn ban due to escalating wildfire risk.

 

Effective immediately, all forms of open burning, including bonfires, campfires, and trash burning, are prohibited.

 

This decision follows a series of recent brushfires and worsening drought conditions.

 

The Keetch-Byram Drought Index (KBDI), which measures soil and vegetation dryness, has reached 469 out of 800, indicating near-drought conditions and significantly heightened fire danger.

 

Under a county ordinance adopted in 2017, a burn ban automatically takes effect when the KBDI reaches 500.

 

Anticipating this threshold, commissioners acted proactively to reduce the risk of wildfire ignition and spread.

 

Residents are urged to adhere strictly to the ban, as violations may result in fines or other enforcement actions.

 

The ban does not apply to state-authorized prescribed burns conducted by trained professionals, the use of barbecue grills for cooking, or permitted public fireworks displays and sales as allowed under Florida law.

 

County fire officials continue to monitor weather patterns, humidity levels, and wildfire activity.

 

They encourage residents to take additional precautions, such as properly disposing of smoking materials, securing trailer chains to prevent sparks, and reporting any signs of smoke or fire immediately.

 

For more information on wildfire safety and open burning restrictions, residents can visit the Brevard County Fire Rescue website.