Sarasota County issues burn ban

Because of local drought conditions and an increased chance of fire hazards, Sarasota County has issued a countywide burn ban. All outdoor burning is prohibited unless a permit has been issued and is applicable for the unincorporated areas of Sarasota County and in the Sarasota city limit.

Exceptions to this include cooking on grills or pits that do not exceed three feet in diameter and two feet in height, or any other valid state or county-authorized burn.

Sarasota County Fire Department requests residents remain vigilant during these dry conditions and to take the following actions:

• Create three zones of defensible space around homes and businesses.
• Clear trash and dead vegetation from the yard.
• Remove leaves and debris from roof, gutters and under decks.
• Have a plan and an emergency preparedness kit packed in case quick evacuation is necessary.
• Monitor local media for updates on road closures, smoke conditions and other hazards.
• Use caution when grilling, camping and discarding cigarettes.
• Don’t use anything that may create sparks outside on dry, windy days.
• Call 911 if you see a fire in your area.

For more information, visit SCGov.net/fire.