In a significant move for residents of Citrus and Hernando counties, local officials have lifted the long-standing burn bans that had been previously imposed in response to alarming drought conditions. The Citrus County and Hernando County Boards of County Commissioners made the decision on March 10, rescinding the countywide burn ban after careful deliberation and review of current environmental conditions.

The burn ban in Citrus County was originally put into place when the Keetch-Byram Drought Index (KBDI)—a scale used to assess soil dryness and wildfire risk—exceeded 500. Fortunately, the index has consistently remained below that critical threshold since February 16, 2026. It’s worth noting, however, that concerns for fire weather and public safety led officials to maintain the ban until recently. Yet, with a favorable decline in the KBDI and recent weather forecasts predicting increased precipitation, the situation has improved notably for both counties. The Florida Forest Service has reported low fire danger levels for Citrus County, giving residents and officials a sense of relief.

Burn Regulations and Safety Guidelines

With the lifting of the ban, residents in unincorporated Citrus County can now burn yard waste without prior authorization, as long as they follow specific guidelines. For instance, any burn piles must be limited to a diameter of 8 feet and positioned at a safe distance from buildings and roadways. Fires can only be ignited after 9 a.m. EST and must be extinguished at least one hour before sunset. If residents cannot meet the necessary setbacks from combustibles and roads, open burning will not be permissible.

  • Burn piles must be under 8 feet in diameter or in a non-combustible container.
  • Fires must be at least 25 feet from homes, 50 feet from paved roads, and 150 feet from occupied buildings.
  • A person needs to be present during the burn with fire suppression equipment on hand.
  • Burning on windy days or during Red Flag Warnings is strictly prohibited.
  • Illegal materials such as household garbage, plastics, and treated wood cannot be burned.

In Hernando County, officials have reported satisfactory levels of precipitation and a marked reduction in brush fire responses, which has allowed them to lift the burn ban in both unincorporated areas and the city of Brooksville. As articulated by Citrus County Fire Chief Craig Stevens, it is essential that residents engage in responsible outdoor burning in alignment with Florida Forest Service regulations.

Drought Conditions: A Continued Concern

While the burn bans have been rescinded, drought conditions are still a matter of concern throughout the broader Tampa Bay region. The KBDI fluctuates significantly, with coastal areas typically drier than those inland, and fluctuations in rainfall patterns can lead to unpredictable fire risks. According to the drought.gov, drought indices are calculated using rainfall observations and radar data, meaning community vigilance remains crucial to ensure that regions don’t swing back into dangerous territory.

Furthermore, many residents may still feel the effects of recent heavy rains, which, while beneficial, fell in torrents, making ground absorption a challenge and raising concerns about potential flooding.

The lifting of the burn bans opens up new possibilities for residents wanting to manage their yard waste through burning but reinforces that safety must remain at the forefront. Local authorities encourage everyone to stay informed about the rules and conditions, knowing that proper practices can prevent future fire dangers and contribute positively to the community.

For those in the cities of Inverness and Crystal River, it’s important to check with city offices for local burning regulations. With the right care and attention, there’s something to be said for safely enjoying the beauty of nature in our beloved Florida landscape.

For more details about the lift of the burn bans in our region, you can visit Tampa Bay 28 and The Newscaster.