Polk County Burn Ban Issued

POLK COUNTY, FL — Lighting a campfire, setting off fireworks or burning household trash could cost Polk County residents up to $500. The county announced its decision to enact a burn ban on Friday.

“We have held off as long as we possibly can on issuing this burn ban,” Polk County Fire Chief Anthony Stravino said in a statement announcing the ban. “But conditions are favorable for the rapid development and spread of brush fires and we need to take every step necessary to ensure the safety of everyone. We also don’t want anyone to lose property or investments due to fire.”

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It is estimated that more than 50 percent of Polk County is averaging over 500 on the Keetch-Byram Drought Index. The index is used to estimate the likelihood of brush fires and the potential for them to become severe. The scale starts at zero and rises to 800, which is an extreme threat. Fire officials, the county said, become concerned when large swaths of land are rating at 500 or above.

The ban includes, but isn’t limited to:

• Campfires
• Bonfires
• Unpermitted controlled burns
• Burning of yard and household trash
• Burning of construction debris
• Burning of organic debris
• Lighting off fireworks
• Noncommercial burning of materials other than for religious or ceremonial purposes that is not contained in a barbecue grill or barbecue pit. The total fuel area may not exceed 3 feet in diameter and 2 feet in height.

The ban covers all of unincorporated Polk County and such cities as Lakeland, Bartow, Polk City and Dundee among others.

Violations of the ban can be punishable by a fine of up to $500 or by imprisonment not to exceed 60 days in county jail or both, the county said.

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