HILLSBOROUGH COUNTY, Fla. –Hillsborough County officials announced their immediate rescission today, just days after extending the countywide emergency burn ban. County Administrator Bonnie Wise signed an Executive Order today, May 12, 2025, lifting the ban for both incorporated and unincorporated county areas.
The decision to rescind the ban follows recent heavy rainfall and favorable projected weather conditions, which have significantly reduced the risk of wildfires in the area. County officials determined that outdoor burning no longer poses an immediate threat to county residents’ health, safety, and welfare.
County officials have stated they will continue to monitor weather conditions and will provide updates to residents as needed.
READ: Flood Risk East, Heat Wave Bakes Plains, Cold Snap Hits West
While the countywide burn ban has been lifted, Hillsborough County Fire Rescue is reminding residents that precautions should always be taken to prevent fires. They urge residents to:
- Obey rules prohibiting unauthorized burns.
- Avoid activities that could create open flames or sparks.
- Properly dispose of cigarettes and refrain from throwing them from vehicles.
It is important to note that even without the emergency burn ban, unauthorized burns are still prohibited in unincorporated Hillsborough County. This means that all open burning is not allowed unless specific authorization has been obtained. Burning yard waste, tree debris, and household garbage on private property remains illegal due to the potential for uncontrolled wildfires.
The Hillsborough County Fire Marshal’s Office issues open fire permits for activities such as campfires, bonfires, ceremonial fires, and religious fires, with no associated fees. The Environmental Protection Commission (EPC) also issues open burning permits for activities like initial land clearing, clearing for mineral operations, clearing of rights-of-way, and clearing for flood control and drainage. The Florida Forest Service can assist railroad workers and farmers with obtaining burn authorizations for agricultural purposes.
Notably, a permit is not required for small fire pits, such as those commonly sold for residential use, provided that only clean, dry wood is burned, the pit is located at least 25 feet away from any structure, and it is used solely for warmth or cooking.
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