SUMTER COUNTY, FL (352today.com) – Due to worsening drought conditions and increased wildfire risk, Sumter County has enacted an Outdoor Burning Restriction (Burn Ban) effective Thursday, Jan. 29, 2026, in accordance with the Sumter County Outdoor Burning Restriction Policy.

The Keetch-Byram Drought Index (KBDI) for Sumter County has reached 540, indicating significant drought conditions. Following consultation with the Florida Forest Service, county officials determined that current weather patterns, frost-damaged vegetation, low humidity, and expected winds create conditions favorable for wildfire ignition and rapid spread. Recent forecasts do not show a trend toward improvement, despite anticipated rainfall.

“With drought conditions, frost-damaged vegetation, and low humidity, it doesn’t take much for a fire to get out of control,” said Fire Chief Rob Hanson. “The burn ban helps reduce that risk, and compliance from the public is critical to keeping our community safe.”

What Is Prohibited

The Outdoor Burning Restriction prohibits:

  • All outdoor burning, including yard debris, agricultural and silvicultural burning, campfires, bonfires, and pile burning, unless conducted or authorized by the Florida Forest Service.
  • The use or discharge of fireworks, flares, sparklers, noisemakers, and other novelties as defined in Florida Statute § 791.01.

Exceptions & Allowed Activities

The following activities are allowed when they are done safely and, when required, properly permitted:

  • Outdoor cooking at home using grills or other equipment made to safely contain flames and heat.
  • Outdoor cooking in public or private spaces that are specifically designed for grilling or cooking and can safely contain fire or heat.
  • Industrial or commercial activities that involve fire, heat, or flames when a permit has been issued.
  • Any activity involving fire or heat that would normally be a safety concern but is allowed because it has been approved through a local, state, or federal permit.
  • Fire department training exercises that involve open flames, as long as they are conducted under controlled conditions and strictly for training purposes.

These activities are permitted because they include safety measures, proper equipment, and oversight to reduce risk to people and property.

The restriction will remain in effect until repealed by the Sumter County Board of County Commissioners or the County Administrator once conditions improve.

Residents are urged to follow the restriction to help prevent wildfires and protect life, property, and natural resources.

For updates and additional information, residents should visit sumtercountyfl.gov or follow Official Sumter County on Facebook.