BURN BAN IN EFFECT

April 14, 2026

Unincorporated Putnam County has issued a burn ban starting Tuesday, April 14, through Tuesday, April 21. On April 21, conditions will be reevaluated.

As of April 14, the entirety of Putnam County is in extreme drought. 

The Keetch-Byram Drought Index for the county is 479. KBDI estimates the dryness of the soil and duff layers.

Relative humidity for the week is expected to be low, particularly at the end of the week. 

According to the NWS, no precipitation is expected in the next 7 days.

What is not allowed during the burn ban?

Outdoor burning (with exceptions, listed below)

Use of explosive or combustible compounds

Parking vehicles with catalytic converters in high grassy areas

Throwing cigarettes or matches

What IS allowed?

Outdoor grills used in preparing food

Activities for which a valid state open burn authorization has been issued by the Florida Forest Service

Decisions on issuing burn bans are a collaborative discussion between the county, Putnam County Fire Rescue, and Florida Forest Service.