As burn bans are still in place for some counties, it’s important to know the guidelines to adhere to based on the area you live in.<\/p>\n
TAMPA, Fla. \u2014 The Tampa Bay area has grappled with extreme drought conditions for several weeks, prompting burn bans\u00a0<\/a>in multiple counties.<\/p>\n But this week, a new report from the National Weather Service (NWS)<\/a> shows the drought is beginning to ease up with the rainy season getting underway. It’s important to note, though, that despite some rain, the NWS says it has not led to “meaningful improvements” to the long-term deficit as of yet.\u00a0<\/p>\n So as burn bans are still in place for some counties \u2014 and others have been lifted \u2014 it’s important to know the guidelines to adhere to based on the area you live in.<\/p>\n Here are the Tampa Bay-area counties that are still under a burn ban as of May 30. Residents can also stay up-to-date using\u00a0the Florida Forest Service map.<\/a><\/p>\n
Yes, Hillsborough County extended its emergency ban Thursday on all outdoor open burning for the 20th consecutive week.<\/p>\n County officials say while there have been recent showers and the forecast calls for rain, the overall dry conditions continue to increase the danger of wildfires.\u00a0<\/p>\n The only exceptions to the burn ban are:<\/p>\n A constantly attended barbecue grill for outdoor cookingCertain agricultural enterprises in eastern and southern parts of the county that can dispose of agriculture plastic through controlled burns\u00a0Burning that has been specifically allowed by the Florida Forest Service\u00a0 <\/p>\n
Pinellas County already prohibits burning yard debris<\/a>, construction debris, and household trash year-round.<\/p>\n
Yes, the Florida Forest Service map shows Polk County is still under a burn ban, prohibiting activities<\/a> such as:<\/p>\n CampfiresBonfiresUnpermitted controlled burnsBurning of yard and household trashBurning of organic debrisFireworksNoncommercial burning; “other than for religious or ceremonial purposes, which is not contained in a barbecue grill or barbecue pit and the total fuel area exceeds 3ft in diameter and 2ft in height.” <\/p>\n
Yes, the Florida Forest Service map shows Pasco County is still under a burn ban.<\/p>\n
\nIs Hillsborough County still under a burn ban? <\/p>\n
\nIs Pinellas County still under a burn ban? <\/p>\n
\nIs Polk County still under a burn ban? <\/p>\n
\nIs Pasco County still under a burn ban? <\/p>\n