SUMTER COUNTY, FL (352today.com) – Sumter County will temporarily waive fees for residential yard debris disposal at the Citizens’ Drop-Off Area in Lake Panasoffkee, as officials continue enforcing a burn ban due to elevated wildfire risk. This campaign began May 9, 2026, and is currently still in effect.
The Sumter County Board of County Commissioners approved the waiver in response to ongoing dry conditions that have made outdoor burning unsafe. The ban prohibits all outdoor burning in the county and is intended to reduce wildfire risk and protect residents, emergency personnel and natural resources.
The fee waiver will remain in effect until the burn ban is lifted.
Residents may dispose of yard waste, including branches, leaves and grass clippings, at the Citizens’ Drop-Off Area, located at 819 CR 529 in Lake Panasoffkee. The facility is open Tuesday through Saturday from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.
County officials said materials must be unloaded by residents by hand, and residents are asked to only bring what they can safely handle. The requirement is intended to maintain safety and manage operations at the site. Recycling services remain available at no cost and include separate bins for aluminum, plastic and cardboard.
The facility also accepts other household items, including residential garbage and bulk items such as furniture, though standard disposal fees still apply for non-yard debris materials under the county’s posted fee schedule.
More information about accepted materials and services at the Citizens’ Drop-Off Area is available at Sumter County’s website.