Cottondale Volunteer Fire Department

04/29/2026

Burn ban in effect for Jackson County effective now until conditions improve

UPDATED 5/12/26: Burn Ban Lifted for Jackson County

During their regular meeting on May 12, 2026, the Jackson County Board of County Commissioners voted to rescind the countywide burn ban that was previously put in place due to dry conditions and elevated wildfire risk.

Following recent rainfall and improved conditions, officials determined it was safe to lift the restrictions based on guidance from the Florida Forest Service and Jackson County Fire Rescue.

Outdoor burning activities may now resume in accordance with Florida Forest Service regulations and applicable safety requirements.

Even with the burn ban lifted, residents are encouraged to continue exercising caution when conducting outdoor burning and to remain mindful of weather conditions and fire safety practices.

Thank you to the community for your cooperation during the burn ban period and for helping protect Jackson County during heightened wildfire conditions.

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🔥 Burn Ban in Effect for Jackson County 🔥
4/28/26

At tonight's meeting, the Jackson County Board of County Commissioners enacted a burn ban due to current dry conditions and increased wildfire risk, based on recommendations from the Florida Forest Service and Jackson County Fire Rescue.

🚫 What’s prohibited:
All outdoor burning, including yard debris, bonfires, campfires, warming fires, outdoor fireplaces, and the use of items that create sparks (like fireworks), is not allowed.

🔥 What’s allowed:
Cooking with a contained gas or charcoal grill
Approved burns by the Florida Forest Service
Firefighter training exercises

🚓 Enforcement:
Fire Rescue and local law enforcement will respond to violations and ensure compliance.

This temporary measure is in place to protect our community, first responders, and natural resources during a period of heightened wildfire risk.

The burn ban will remain in effect until conditions improve.

➡️ Please help keep Jackson County safe by following this order and avoiding any outdoor burning.

For updates, follow Jackson County’s official channels.

03/19/2026

Alert- the new traffic light in front of the QT / old Hardee’s is now active. Please be observant if traveling in that area.

10/11/2025

It’s always a highlight when we get to visit CES and spend time with the students- the most important investment is our community and its future.

10/11/2025

We were honored to be asked to come join PreK at Cottondale Elementary and talk to them about fire safety to wrap up Community Helpers Week.

05/24/2025

We would like to thank the training cadre of members from Panama City Beach Fire Rescue and Marianna Fire Department for hosting a training today and allowing us to join in. Training on forcible entry, ladder work, hose line work, and search techniques were worked on today, allowing us to be better prepared in case those skills are needed in time of emergency. We look forward to joining in again.

08/03/2024

There is a road blockage in the northbound lane of 231 at the Front Street intersection, please use caution in the area.

01/09/2024

The first band of severe weather is clearing at this time, with severe damage in the Arrowhead and Spring Chase areas near Marianna. Please remain vigilant and cautious, as another band of severe weather is following behind it that bears attention.

01/08/2024

Jackson County Schools are closed tomorrow, Tuesday January 9 due to forecasts of severe weather.

01/02/2024

We are pleased to announce that our hours of training and work for our ISO inspection have paid off, and our classification has been updated to a 4, down from a 6. The public protection classification is a 1-10 scale, with 1 being the best, and to make a 2 point improvement is a welcome accomplishment for our department. We are excited for continual growth and improvement to continue!

11/08/2023

Jackson County Fire Rescue/BOCC Issues Burn Ban.
Read the Press Release here. 👇
https://jacksoncountyfl.gov/jackson-county-issues-burn-ban/