Mandatory burn ban

Smoke from a wildfire lingers in a wooded area near structures on Southeast Malauka Loop where a 126-acre fire raced through the 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 issued a countywide mandatory burn ban effective as of 5 p.m. April 20.

“This action reflects increasingly hazardous environmental conditions of relatively low humidity and a forecast of high, sustained winds over the next seven to 10 days. The current Keetch-Byram Drought Index (KBDI) is 529, with recent values ranging from a low of 394 to a high of 637, reflecting significantly dry conditions throughout the region. In addition, neighboring counties are experiencing active wildfires demonstrating rapid and aggressive fire growth,” the news release noted.

Weather forecasts include red flag conditions in Marion County, driven by relatively low humidity and sustained high winds, elevating the risk of wildfire ignition and spread. Projections for the next seven to 10 days show continued strong winds and minimal rainfall, which are expected to worsen these conditions. County officials determined the burn ban is necessary to protect the health, safety and property of residents, according to the release.

Under the burn ban, all outdoor burning is prohibited, with the following exceptions:

• Outdoor cookers and grills may be used provided they are attended at all times by a responsible adult while in operation.
• Commercial land clearing operations may proceed only after inspection, review, and approval by the Florida Forest Service or Marion County Fire Rescue on a case-by-case basis. Adequate fire suppression personnel and equipment must be present on site, and final authorization must be granted by the Florida Forest Service.
• Public fireworks displays are permitted when conducted in accordance with approved special use and fireworks permits and when adequate fire suppression personnel and equipment are on site pursuant to Marion County fireworks and special use permits.

Marion County Fire Rescue urges residents to take the following precautions during this period of heightened fire risk:

• Postpone outdoor burning activities until the burn ban is lifted.
• Dispose of yard debris at one of Marion County’s 18 recycling centers as a safe alternative to backyard burning. For locations and information, call 352-671-8465.
• Report arson or suspicious activity immediately to law enforcement.
• Do not discard cigarette butts from vehicles.
• Use caution when operating lawn mowers or other equipment that could produce sparks.
• Call 911 immediately if you see a fire or a large column of smoke.

The Marion County Multi-Agency Wildland Task Force formed shortly before the unprecedented 1998 wildfire season. Over the last decade, firefighters and other public safety professionals from local city, county, state and federal agencies have met on a routine basis to discuss wildfire conditions, call load, manpower capabilities, wildfire tactics and public education campaigns, the release stated. The task force will meet frequently and keep citizens informed about any changes in wildfire conditions.