Emergency Burn Ban Declared By Pasco County Fire Officials

PASCO COUNTY, FL — Pasco County is under an emergency burn ban for all areas of the county. Extremely dry conditions due to a prolonged lack of rainfall has resulted in an increased risk of brush fires, said fire authorities.

The mandatory burn ban is effective immediately and will not expire until conditions improve.

Everyone living in unincorporated areas of Pasco County is prohibited from setting fires or causing fires, including:

• Open burning
• Campfires/bonfires
• Burning yard waste/garbage

Residents should keep in mind that, under these dry conditions, simple actions, like tossing a lit cigarette into the grass, can easily ignite brush fires that can quickly spread out of control endangering people, homes and businesses.

Related: Flood Warning Issued For NE; Wildfires, Drought Warning In Central FL

Outdoor cooking in grills or smokers is acceptable but Pasco Fire Rescue encourages residents to make sure the coals in the grill are completely extinguished after cooking.

To report a burn ban violation, call the Pasco County Emergency Communications Center at 727-847-8102.