Full Notification

Alachua County remains under severe drought conditions, increasing wildfire risk across our area. Governor Ron DeSantis has issued Executive Order 26-33 declaring a State of Emergency that includes Alachua County due to winter weather impacts, drought, and wildfire risk.

A countywide burn ban remains in effect prohibiting all unpermitted and non-exempt open burning. Rain forecast this weekend is not expected to significantly improve drought conditions or reduce wildfire risk. Vegetation and soils remain critically dry.

Residents are urged to:

• Follow the countywide burn ban.
• Avoid any activities that could produce sparks.
• Properly extinguish and dispose of cigarettes.
• Report smoke or wildfires immediately by calling 911.

Unauthorized burning during a burn ban is illegal. Anyone who violates the burn ban may be held financially liable for all damages caused by a resulting fire, including full costs of wildfire suppression and extinguishment efforts. These costs can be substantial.