Burn Ban is now in effect across Seminole County, prohibiting the ignition and burning of open fires.
Under Seminole County Code (Section 85.24), a Burn Ban is enacted when the drought index, known as the Keetch-Byram Drought Index (KBDI), reaches or exceeds 500 and no measurable rainfall is expected in the near future. Based on these conditions, the Burn Ban went into effect on April 24, 2026.
The purpose of the Burn Ban is to reduce the risk of wildfires and protect lives and property throughout the community.
The countywide, mandatory Burn Ban applies to both unincorporated areas and municipalities of Seminole County. The Burn Ban prohibits all outdoor burning that has not been permitted by the Florida Forest Service. Bonfires, campfires, and the burning of vegetative (yard) debris is not allowed at this time.
The Burn Ban remains in effect until the drought index dips below 500 for seven consecutive days or until further notice.
Above ground charcoal, gas, and electric grills, however, are permitted for use. Seminole County urges everyone to ensure charcoal is extinguished upon completion of cooking when using grills. Barrel-type barbecue smokers are also allowed, as this is not considered “open burning.” If you are using methods of cooking, avoid using outdoor cooking methods if in close proximity to heavily wooded areas.
For more information, call the Seminole County Citizen Engagement Center at 407-665-6650. To report a violation of the Burn Ban, contact the Seminole County Sheriff's Office at 407-665-6650.
Seminole County Fire Department urges all residents to take the following steps to reduce wildfire risk and protect their homes:
- Create a defensible space of at least 30 feet around your home by removing dead vegetation and flammable materials
- Keep yards clear of trash, leaves, and debris, including roofs and gutters
- Have an Emergency Plan and an emergency kit ready in case an evacuation is ordered, especially if your home is near wooded areas
- Monitor Seminole County’s social media and local news for updates on road closures, smoke conditions, and other hazards
- Use extreme caution when grilling, camping, or discarding cigarettes
- Register with Alert Seminole at AlertSeminole.org to receive emergency notifications
Visit seminolecountyfl.gov/wildfires for more information and tips to protect your property from wildfires.
About the Seminole County Fire Department (SCFD): The Seminole County Fire Department serves nearly a half-million residents countywide with 21 fire stations and responds to over 50,000 incidents annually. SCFD holds an ISO Class 1 rating, is accredited by the Center for Public Safety Excellence (CFAI), is gold standard–accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Ambulance Services (CAAS), and is an Accredited Center of Excellence (ACE) through the International Academies of Emergency Dispatch. SCFD provides emergency services to unincorporated Seminole County and the cities of Altamonte Springs, Casselberry and Winter Springs, and maintains first-response agreements with Lake Mary, Longwood, Sanford, Oviedo, and Orlando Sanford International Airport. Follow SCFD on Facebook (@SCFD.1974), Instagram (@seminolefd) and X (@SCFDPIO). For more information, visit www.SCFDFL.com.
