.png?width=1024&height=683&ext=.png)
Here’s what we need from you:
- Clear dead, dry vegetation within 30 feet of your home
- Use caution with any spark-producing equipment outdoors
- Never discard cigarettes near vegetation
- Call 911 immediately if you see smoke or fire
Can I have a fire in my backyard?
Jacksonville Municipal Code Section 420.201
Outdoor burning is prohibited without a permit in Duval County. This is the law year-round, not just during dry conditions.
Only very limited activities are allowed without a permit: small campfires for recreation, cooking fires for outdoor food preparation, and warming fires for outdoor workers. These fires must not produce excessive smoke.
Due to the current severe drought and elevated wildfire risk, JFRD strongly discourages all outdoor burning, even activities that would normally be allowed.
Can I burn yard waste, leaves, or brush?
Jacksonville Municipal Code Section 420.201
Fire pits are subject to the same restrictions as other outdoor fires. Small recreational fires in a fire pit may be allowed without a permit, but given current drought conditions, JFRD strongly discourages using fire pits.
Fire pits must not produce excessive smoke and must be attended at all times. Leaves should never be burned. When in doubt, skip the fire pit until conditions improve.
What is a bonfire, and how do I get a permit?
Jacksonville Municipal Code Section 420.202
A bonfire is any outdoor fire larger than 3 feet in diameter and requires a permit from JFRD.
Bonfire requirements:
- Must be at least 50 feet from any structure
- Must be constantly attended by a responsible adult until completely extinguished
- Must have a garden hose connected to the water supply or a fire extinguisher readily available
- Can be denied or prohibited by the Fire Chief during hazardous conditions
Apply for a bonfire permit: www.myjfrd.com/permits/bonfire-permits
JFRD is strongly discouraging bonfire permits due to drought conditions and elevated wildfire risk.
Has JFRD issued a burn ban?
Jacksonville Municipal Code Sections 420.201, 420.202€
JFRD has not issued a formal burn ban. However, outdoor burning is always prohibited without a permit, and JFRD is strongly discouraging all outdoor burning due to current severe drought and wildfire risk.
The Fire Chief has authority to prohibit any or all outdoor burning when atmospheric conditions or local circumstances make fires hazardous.
Why is outdoor burning discouraged right now?
Duval County is experiencing severe drought. Current conditions create extreme fire risk, dead dry vegetation, high winds, and thousands of areas where homes meet vegetation. One spark can start a fire that spreads in minutes.
What if I see smoke or an unattended fire?
Call 911 immediately. Outdoor fires can spread rapidly under current dry, windy conditions.
Can I burn for land clearing or agricultural purposes?
For initial land clearing, call 630-2489 (CITY) or the Environmental Quality Division at 904-255-7100 to request a Burn Permit. Agricultural and land-clearing burns have separate requirements and may require authorization from Florida Forest Service. Visit www.fdacs.gov or contact Florida Forest Service.
Bottom line. Outdoor burning is prohibited without a permit in Duval County. Even permitted fires are strongly discouraged right now. When in doubt, don’t burn.