Tampa, Fla.-(Newsradio 970 WFLA)-Hillsborough County's Emergency Policy Group has extended the executive order banning open burning until at least May 18.
Warm temperatures and dry conditions have combined to increase the danger of wildfires in our area. The ban has been in place since April 27.
Under the executive order:
- A local state of emergency is declared.
- All outdoor open burning is prohibited. The only exception is burning that has been specifically allowed by the Florida Forest Service.
- Any authorized outdoor burning approved by the Florida Forest Service shall be conducted in strict compliance with state statutes, agency rules, or any other written conditions. Any person conducting outdoor burning authorized by the Florida Forest Service shall provide a copy of the authorization to the Emergency Dispatch Center no less than 24 hours prior to conducting the burn, along with a call the day of the burning.
- The order bans fireworks and sparklers.
- Outdoor grilling is allowed, as long as the flames are contained within a grill or other fireproof container, and the fire is constantly attended and extinguished fully.
If conditions persist, the order can be extended.