Hardee County Burn Ban – What you need to know
Updated @ 10:46 AM, July 9th, 2022:
On behalf of Hardee County Fire Rescue, Hardee County’s Burn Ban has been lifted.
From the City of Bowling Green, Florida:
On May 5, 2022, Hardee County Fire Rescue and the Hardee County Board of County Commissioners have enacted a countywide Burn Ban in accordance with County Ordinance, 17-10.
When dry weather conditions result in a Keetch-Bryan Drought Index reading at an average of 650 or higher, such readings shall operate as an automatic prohibition on open burning except for burning done by, or under the direct supervision of, authorized County or municipal personnel with the authorization of the Florida Department of Agriculture Services, Florida Forest Services. This athematic prohibition will continue to be in effect until such times as the Fire Chief or their authorized designee and the Board of County Commissioners has determined it is safe to resume burning in Hardee County. Hardee County Fire Marshals and Law Enforcement Officers shall be, authorized to enforce the Burn Ban.
The countywide Burn Ban prohibits all outdoor burning that has not be specifically permitted by the Florida Forest Service. Bonfires, campfires, and the burning of vegetative (yard) debris will not be allowed at this time.
The Burn Ban shall remain in effect until such as advertised in the local newspaper of general circulation in Hardee County. Any person who violates the Burn Ban can be punished by either imprisonment for a term not to exceed 60 days or a fine not to exceed $500 or by both.
For additional information, please call the Hardee County Fire Rescue Department at 863-773-4362. To report violations of the Burn Ban, please call the Hardee County Sheriff’s Office at 863-773-4144.