New Port Richey, Fla.-(Newsrado 970 WFLA)-The Pasco Board of County Commissioners has approved a burn ban after a rash of wildfires have charred acres in recent days. The burn ban goes into effect immediately.
Under the burn ban, Pasco County residents are prohibited from setting fires or causing fires without first obtaining a permit from the Florida Forest Service for burning in unincorporated areas of the county
The ban includes open burning, campfires or bonfires, burning yard waste or garbage and using fireworks. Outdoor cooking in grills that can contain the fire, flame, and heat is acceptable.
Pasco Fire-Rescue warns you to be aware that simple actions such as tossing a cigarette into the grass or idling a vehicle over grass can ignite a brush fire on the side of the road. Pasco County is so dry that brush fires can spread quickly, threatening homes and businesses.
Residents who refuse to comply with or violate the burn ban face fines up to $500 or imprisonment of up to 60 days.
Photo courtesy Florida Highway Patrol