Orange County issues burn ban as drought index rises

A burn ban has been ordered for unincorporated areas of Orange County, as well as for the municipalities that Orange County Fire Rescue services, including Edgewood, Belle Isle, Oakland and Eatonville. 

Burn bans are automatically instituted under Orange County’s Fire Prevention and Protection Ordinance when the Keetch-Byram Drought Index meets or exceeds 500. 

The burn ban prohibits all outdoor burning unless a permit has been issued. This includes recreational open burning such as campfires, ceremonial bonfires, outdoor fireplaces, and/or open flame heating devices. Also included is the burning of yard waste, debris, trash and any other materials.

Outdoor burning authorized by the state or county is not affected by this ban, nor is the use of outdoor grills or pits as defined in Section 18-4 of the Orange County Code.

Violators risk having the fire extinguished and enforcement action, up to and including the issuance of a citation by Orange County officials. The burn ban will automatically lift after the drought index falls below 500 for seven consecutive days. Orange County will announce a lift of the ban on is website.

HELPFUL TIPS
Orange County Fire Rescue reminds residents to take the following actions to protect their families and homes from fire danger:

• Create at least 30 feet of defensible – meaning clean and green – space around your home.

• Clear trash and dead vegetation from your front and backyards.

• Remove leaves and debris from roof and gutters.

• Have a plan and an emergency kit packed in case an evacuation is ordered, especially if your home directly abuts wildlands.

• Monitor local media for updates on road closures, smoke conditions, and other hazards

• Use extreme caution when grilling, camping, and discarding cigarettes

• Call 9-1-1 if you see fire in your area

• Download the OCFL Alert app and sign up for notifications to stay abreast of rapidly changing conditions and warnings for your area.