04/22/2026
PUBLIC SAFETY NOTICE: DROUGHT CONDITIONS & COUNTYWIDE BURN BAN IN EFFECT
PUBLIC SAFETY NOTICE: DROUGHT CONDITIONS & COUNTYWIDE BURN BAN IN EFFECT
The Baker County Sheriff’s Office is advising all residents of severe and ongoing drought conditions impacting Baker County and Northeast Florida. Current environmental indicators show extremely dry soil and vegetation, significantly increasing the risk of wildfires across our area. According to county emergency management data, drought conditions have reached extreme to exceptional levels which has Baker County under the highest drought categories. These conditions, combined with low humidity and continued lack of rainfall, create a dangerous environment where fires can ignite easily and spread rapidly. These drought conditions will persist for some time, and residents should be prepared for an extended period of elevated fire risk.
BURN BAN INFORMATION
This ban prohibits all outdoor burning activities, including but not limited to:
Yard debris and trash burning
Bonfires and campfires
Outdoor fireplaces and chimenea's
Fireworks, sparklers, and other incendiary devices
The only exception applies to attended and properly monitored gas or charcoal grills used for cooking, and any authorized burns approved by the Florida Forest Service following inspection.
ENFORCEMENT & PENALTIES
This burn ban carries the full force of law as outlined by Baker County Resolution 2026-01 & 2026-16. Any person found in violation may be charged with a second-degree misdemeanor, punishable by:
Up to a $500 fine per violation
Up to 60 days in jail per violation
BAKER COUNTY S/O RESPONSE
Deputies will actively investigate potential violations and will be responding to all complaints related to illegal burning.
Individuals found in violation will be informed of the burn ban and its consequences
Violators will be directed to immediately extinguish the fire
Failure or refusal to comply will result in arrest
The Fire Department will be dispatched to extinguish the fire at the direction of Deputies
Any interference with Deputies or Fire personnel will result in additional charges, including Obstruction
PUBLIC SAFETY PRIORITY
The Baker County Sheriff’s Office, in coordination with the Board of County Commissioners, Emergency Management, and Fire Rescue, is taking these measures to protect lives, property, and natural resources. Even a small fire under current conditions can quickly become uncontrollable, threatening homes, families, and first responders. We are asking all residents to exercise extreme caution, remain vigilant, and report any suspicious smoke or fire activity immediately. Your cooperation is critical to prevent wildfires and keeping Baker County safe.
For questions or to report a violation, please contact the Baker County Sheriff’s Office non-emergency line, 904-259-2861. To report an emergency fire situation, call 911.