FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

February 13, 2026

CONTACT: Fire Services
PHONE: 850.415.5026

Washington County Board of Commissioners Voted to Enact A Burn Ban Until Further Notice

WASHINGTON COUNTY, FL - On Tuesday, February 10, 2026, the Washington County Board of County Commissioners scheduled an Emergency/Special Meeting to address the current drought after the release of the State of Florida, Office of the Governor, Executive Order Number 26-33 on February 9, 2026.

On Thursday, February 12, 2026, the County Commissioners voted to enact a county-wide burn ban until further notice.

The Fire Services Coordinator, Chief Barron, and Emergency Management Director, Mrs. Welch, addressed the County Commission Board explaining the severity of the drought and hazardous weather conditions. Chief Barron also provided the Board with how many counties in the state have already enacted a burn ban and there is not enough anticipated rain in the forecast to relieve Washington County from the drought.

The Washington County Fire Department has been inundated with emergency calls related to brush fires in the past two weeks that have threatened many structures in the process, says Chief Barron. For the safety of the County, the County Board of Commissioners unanimously voted to enact a burn ban until further notice.

If you have any questions on what is or isn't allowed during this burn ban, please contact the Washington County Fire Services at 850.415.5026.

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