DeSoto County, Florida
Open burning is currently prohibited in DeSoto county. The order took effect on November 20, 2025 (as reported to the Florida Forest Service).
What this means
- Open burning of yard waste, brush and debris
- Trash and vegetation burning of any kind
- Warming fires and unattended fires outdoors
- Small cooking fires (grill, camp stove)
Penalties in Florida
Violating open-burning rules or a county burn ban is a second-degree misdemeanor under Florida Statutes § 590.14/§590.28, punishable under §775.082/§775.083 by up to 60 days in jail and a fine of up to $500. Separately, anyone who lets an authorized fire escape or causes a wildfire is liable for suppression costs, or $150, whichever is greater.
Classification: Misdemeanor of the second degree · Maximum fine: up to $500, up to 60 days in jail
Recent status history
- Nov 20, 2025 — Burn Ban in Effect
Sources & audit log
| Checked | Source | Result |
|---|---|---|
| Aug 21, 2026 | Florida Forest Service ↗ | status: Burn Ban in Effect |
Neighbouring counties
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Still legal during a ban
None of these are a way around DeSoto county's restriction — they're what stays legal regardless of it: contained burning, screened fire pits, and basic fire safety gear. Always confirm locally before burning anything.
Contained burn barrels
A lidded, spark-arrestor barrel keeps debris burning contained rather than as open burning — check your county's rules, since some bans cover any outdoor fire regardless of containment.
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Most burn bans target open debris burning, not a screened recreational fire pit — but always confirm locally, since some restrictions cover any outdoor flame.
Fire extinguishers
Always worth having on hand near any permitted fire, ban or no ban.
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Limits of this information
burnbanradar reads public burn-ban orders as published by Florida Forest Service and reports them unchanged. Cities and municipalities within DeSoto county may impose stricter rules than the county order. Water districts and state forestry rules may add further restrictions. When an order is ambiguous or the source cannot be reached, we show Unconfirmed instead of guessing a status. The county's own posted order governs.
Common questions
Is DeSoto county under a burn ban right now?
Yes. DeSoto county is currently under a burn ban issued by Florida Forest Service, effective since November 20, 2025. Open burning is prohibited until the order is lifted.
When did the DeSoto burn ban start?
The Florida Forest Service order took effect on November 20, 2025 (as reported to the Florida Forest Service). It stays in effect until conditions improve or the order is formally lifted.
What can I still burn in DeSoto county during this ban?
During a burn ban, small cooking fires (grills, camp stoves) typically remain allowed. Open burning of yard waste, brush, debris, and trash is prohibited. Consult the county order or fire marshal for exceptions — some jurisdictions permit specific commercial activities.
How do I report an illegal fire in DeSoto county?
Call 911 for any fire that is out of control or threatens property. For a non-emergency burn-ban violation, you can also reach Florida Forest Service at 1-800-342-5869 (for reporting suspected arson; call 911 for a fire in progress), or contact the DeSoto Sheriff's Office.