“Conditions have improved enough in Duval County that lifting the burn ban is the right call,” said Director/Fire Chief Percy Golden II. “We made the decision carefully, in consultation with our partners at the National Weather Service, Florida Forest Service, and Emergency Preparedness Division. The recent rain has helped, and we expect that trend to continue. We know the drought conditions have not disappeared, and JFRD is still paying close attention.”
Residents are reminded that the burn ban does not change Jacksonville’s year-round open burning regulations. Outdoor burning without a permit remains prohibited under Jacksonville Municipal Code Section 420.201.
JFRD thanks the community for their cooperation and patience during the burn ban and will continue monitoring conditions closely.
For updates on fire conditions and weather, follow JaxReady on social media or visit JaxReady.com.
FAQ: Outdoor Burning in Duval County
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.
Can I burn yard waste, leaves, or brush?
Jacksonville Municipal Code Section 420.201
No, in Duval County, brush and leaves are considered yard waste, and the burning of yard waste is prohibited (JEPB Rule 2.801C.2.).
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 and cannot contain yard waste.
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
Can I burn for land clearing or agricultural purposes?
Agricultural burning requires authorization from Florida Forest Service. Visit www.fdacs.gov or contact Florida Forest Service. Burning land clearing debris is only allowed with a permit issued by the Environmental Quality Division (EQD). Contact EQD at AirResponse@coj.net or 904-255-7120.
Bottom line. Other than the exceptions described above, outdoor burning is prohibited without a permit in Duval County or authorization by the Forestry Service (agricultural burning).