MCFR lifts mandatory burn ban

Firefighters with Marion County Fire Rescue Station 27 in Weirsdale work where a wildfire threatened structures on Southeast Malauka Loop where a 126-acre fire started and raced through dry conditions north and east of Weirsdale on Feb. 7, 2026. [Bruce Ackerman/Ocala Gazette file photo]

The Marion County Board of County Commissioners has lifted the mandatory countywide burn ban due to current weather conditions and improved environmental factors. The voluntary burn ban remains in effect countywide despite recent rainfall.

While the mandatory ban has been lifted, Marion County Fire Rescue and the Florida Forest Service are strongly encouraging residents to follow a voluntary burn ban and avoid outdoor burning whenever possible, the news release noted.

Any outdoor burning must comply with Florida Forest Service regulations and Marion County safety requirements:

• Burning household trash is illegal
• Fires must meet required setback distances from structures, roadways and wildland areas
• Pile size limits apply
• Yard waste fires may only be ignited after 9 a.m. and must be fully extinguished before sunset
• Fires must be attended by a responsible adult at all times
• Smoke must not create a nuisance for neighbors or nearby roadways
• Wind conditions must be considered before and during any burning

Even small fires can quickly spread under dry or windy conditions. MCFR encourages residents to use caution, monitor weather conditions and consider alternative methods for yard debris disposal, such as taking it to Marion County Solid Waste collection points in lieu of burning.

For more information, visit fdacs.gov/Divisions-Offices/Florida-Forest-Service or contact Marion County Fire Rescue at (352) 291-8000.