Polk County Set To Lift Burn Ban

LAKELAND, FL — Polk County residents will once again be able to burn yard debris and enjoy sitting around controlled bonfires. The county is expected to lift its outdoor burn ban this Friday, June 9.

According to the county, the recent deluge of rain in the region has greatly reduced the critical wildfire risks that lingered over the past several months. Conditions were so dry in Polk County, the ban was instituted back on March 31 and has remained in place ever since.

While the county’s fire chief intends to rescind the ban on Friday, officials note that it can be reinstated if conditions become too dry again. The repeal means residents will be free to burn yard debris and construction debris. Camp and bonfires will also be allowed once more.

As of Thursday, the Florida Forest Service reported there were 37 active wildfires burning across the state. That number was down from more than 145 reported about a month ago.

The National Weather Service’s Tampa Bay office says rainy conditions should continue in the region through the weekend at least.

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