SUBJECT:
Title
Request Ratification of the State of Emergency Order Signed by the Chairman on February 10, 2026, Pertaining to a Ban on the Use of Flares, Explosives, or Outdoor Burning Devices or Otherwise Lawful Outdoor Burning
Body
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INITIATOR: |
DEPARTMENT: |
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Jennifer Clark, Executive Assistant |
Commission Office |
DESCRIPTION/BACKGROUND:
Dry and windy conditions continue to cause and exacerbate wildfires in Marion County, so a mandatory burn ban is being used as a measure to protect the health, safety, welfare and property of citizens and visitors.
The burn ban prohibits all outdoor burning with the following exceptions:
• Use of outdoor cookers or grills as long as they are attended by a responsible adult at all times the unit is burning, cooking or otherwise in use
• Commercial land clearing where: inspection of review and approval has been granted by the Florida Forest Service or Marion County Fire Rescue on a case by case basis and it is determined that there will be sufficient fire suppression personnel and equipment on scene. Authorization must be granted by the Florida Forest Service
• Public fireworks displays with adequate fire suppression equipment and personnel on site; and pursuant to Marion County Special Use Permit and Marion County Fire Rescue Fireworks Permit
The state of emergency will be in effect until 5:00 p.m. on February 17, 2026, unless modified, extended or terminated upon the joint recommendation of the Marion County Fire Chief and the County Administrator, by action of the Chairman of the Board of County Commissioners (BCC), with ratification by the BCC as soon as practical at a regular or special meeting.
BUDGET/IMPACT:
None
RECOMMENDED ACTION:
Recommended action
Motion to ratify the State of Emergency Order signed by the Chairman on February 10, 2026.
end