Citrus, Okeechobee Counties Enforce Burn Bans Amid High Fire Risk

Okeechobee County has enacted a burn ban due to increasingly dry weather and heightened wildfire risk, prohibiting bonfires, yard waste burning, fireworks, and other open flames, with violators facing potential fines or jail time. The ban will remain in effect until further notice to help prevent wildfires, though outdoor cooking is still permitted if conducted in equipment designed to contain the fire. Similarly, Citrus County has implemented a burn ban amid worsening drought conditions and very high fire danger, restricting most open burning activities except for attended cooking and permitted industrial, governmental, or fire department activities. Both counties emphasized the proactive nature of these measures to protect residents and property, with officials urging the community to adhere to guidelines for safety. No timeline was provided for when either ban would be lifted. These actions reflect broader concerns across the region as dry conditions elevate wildfire threats.