Escambia County Fire Rescue Urges Residents to Practice Outdoor Burning Safety

Escambia County Fire Rescue reminds residents to use extreme caution when conducting any outdoor burning activity, as dry conditions and shifting winds can quickly turn a small fire into a dangerous situation. 

Since March 1, 2026, ECFR has responded to 100 outdoor fire incidents, including two that extended to nearby homes, resulting in the total loss of two homes. ECFR encourages residents to stay vigilant and follow all local regulations to help prevent wildfires and protect lives and property.

Outdoor Burning Regulations

Check local regulations and burn bans before starting any outdoor fire.

• Escambia County Open Burning Ordinance
• City of Pensacola Outdoor Fires Ordinance
• Florida Forest Service Burn Ban Map
• Florida Forest Service Outdoor Burning Guidelines

Outdoor Burning Safety Tips

• Avoid burning on windy or dry days, as embers can spread quickly.
• Always keep fires small and manageable.
• Maintain a clear area. Keep about 10-15 feet around the burn site clear of grass, leaves and debris.
• Never use accelerants such as gasoline to start or maintain a fire.
• Keep a water source or fire extinguisher nearby.
• Never leave a fire unattended.
• Fully extinguish the fire by soaking it with water and stirring the ashes to cool the area.
  

Outdoor Burning in Escambia County

Before conducting an outdoor burn, it’s important to know what Escambia County residents can and cannot burn. Note: The City of Pensacola prohibits outdoor fires or open burning of any kind within city limits. Please see the city ordinance for more information.

• It is illegal to burn household trash, including paper products, treated lumber, rubber materials, tires, pesticides, paint and aerosol containers.
• Residents can burn vegetative debris, such as tree branches, brush cuttings, needles and leaves. All outdoor burns must occur during daytime hours.
• When establishing your outdoor burn location, the size of the debris pile cannot exceed 8 feet in diameter and must be located in the following areas:
  • 25 feet from any forested area, such as grasslands, brush or wildlands
  • 25 feet from a home or any other combustible area
  • 50 feet from any paved or public roadway
  • 150 feet from any occupied dwelling other than your home

Residents should report any out-of-control fires immediately by calling 911.

Escambia County Fire Rescue remains committed to protecting the community through fire prevention and public education. By practicing safe outdoor burning, residents can help reduce the risk of wildfires and keep Escambia County and its residents safe. 

For more information about Escambia County Fire Rescue and fire safety, visit MyEscambia.com/firerescue.