St. Johns County Extends Burn Ban Seven Days as Extreme Drought Conditions Persist

Burn Ban extended 7 days for St. Johns County
Burn Ban Extension Information

Emergency proclamation continues countywide restrictions amid ongoing wildfire threat

Key Takeaways:

Burn ban extended seven days through Emergency Proclamation No. 2026-2 — All restrictions and emergency powers remain in effect as drought conditions persist.

Extreme drought and regional wildfire activity driving decision — Ongoing dry conditions and nearby fires continue to pose a significant threat to St. Johns County.

Residents urged to prevent wildfire ignition — Avoid outdoor burning and everyday activities that could spark fires as conditions remain highly combustible.

On April 27, St. Johns County extended its countywide burn ban for an additional seven days through Emergency Proclamation No. 2026-2 (PDF), as extreme drought conditions and elevated wildfire risk continue across the region.

The extension, signed by Board of County Commissioners Chair Clay Murphy, continues the State of Local Emergency originally declared on April 20 under Emergency Proclamation No. 2026-1. The order maintains all existing restrictions and emergency powers to protect life, property, and natural resources.

County officials say ongoing drought conditions, combined with recent wildfire activity in neighboring counties and a lack of significant rainfall, necessitate continued restrictions. The prolonged dry conditions have created a situation where fires can ignite easily and spread rapidly.

Under the extended burn ban, all outdoor burning remains prohibited, including:

Yard debris burning

Campfires and bonfires

Unattended open flames

Residents are strongly urged to avoid any activity that could spark a wildfire, such as improper disposal of cigarettes, use of fireworks, or parking vehicles on dry grass.

St. Johns County Fire Rescue and Emergency Management officials continue to monitor conditions daily and coordinate with state and regional partners. The County will reassess conditions prior to the expiration of the extended order.

The burn ban remains aligned with broader emergency actions across Florida and reflects a continued proactive approach to wildfire prevention during one of the driest periods on record for the region.

Residents are encouraged to stay informed through official St. Johns County communication channels and to follow all public safety guidance.

St. Johns County Emergency Management encourages the public to stay informed through these options:

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