Jackson County Issues Burn Ban Due to Elevated Wildfire Risk
April 28, 2026
Jackson County, FL — At its regular meeting on April 28, 2026, at 6:00 p.m., the Jackson County Board of County Commissioners adopted a resolution prohibiting outdoor burning throughout Jackson County and its municipalities. This action was taken following recommendations from the Florida Forest Service and Jackson County Fire Rescue due to current dry conditions that significantly increase the risk of wildfires.
The Board determined that existing environmental conditions present a public safety hazard that could be worsened by outdoor burning. As a result, all outdoor burning activities are prohibited unless specifically authorized.
Under the order, it is unlawful to burn any combustible material outdoors or engage in activities that may produce flames or sparks, including the use of fireworks or similar items. The ban applies to common activities such as yard debris burning, bonfires, campfires, warming fires, and the use of outdoor fireplaces or chimneys. Cooking is only permitted using contained gas or charcoal grills. Any unauthorized burning of grass, brush, or forested land is considered a violation of the law.
Exceptions to the burn ban include firefighter training exercises and burn operations that have been approved by the Florida Forest Service.
Jackson County Fire Rescue and local fire departments will respond to reports of outdoor burning and take immediate action to extinguish fires when necessary. Law enforcement agencies, including the Jackson County Sheriff’s Office and municipal police departments, will assist with enforcement and ensure compliance with the order.
The burn ban will remain in effect until conditions improve and it is deemed safe to lift the order. The Board will continue to monitor conditions in coordination with Jackson County Fire Rescue and the Florida Forest Service. Residents are encouraged to stay informed by following official Jackson County communication channels for updates.
Jackson County, Florida
Board of County Commissioners
As Florida’s second-oldest county, Jackson County is rich in history. Today, the County and its citizens continue to recover from Hurricane Michael and chart a new path for the future. Natural resources such as Jackson Blue Springs and the Chipola River bring visitors from all over the country.
ADA/EEO/Fair Housing/Title VI
View the story of one family’s fight against housing discrimination:
The Jackson County Board of County Commissioners is an Equal Opportunity Employer and a Drug-Free Workplace. In accordance with the adopted Section 504 Policy, the County will take affirmative steps to reasonably accommodate individuals with disabilities and ensure their needs are equitably represented in County programs and activities. Pursuant to Title VI and the Civil Rights Act of 1964, the County will not exclude from participation in, deny the benefits of, or subject to discrimination anyone on the grounds of race, color, national origin, sex, age, disability, religion, language, income, or family status.
For assistance with EEO, ADA, Title VI, or Section 504 matters, contact the Jackson County Human Resources Director at (850) 482-9633 ext. 227. The County also has a Fair Housing Ordinance. For assistance with Fair Housing matters, contact the Housing Grants Coordinator at (850) 482-9083.