Let the fireworks fly: Collier County ends burn ban after deluge of rainfall

Collier County has extinguished its burn ban.

The ban applied in all unincorporated areas, outside of city limits. While it didn't prevent the sale of fireworks, they couldn't have been used while it remained in effect.

State law limits fireworks to three days a year: July 4, New Year's Eve and New Year's Day. So, opportunities to enjoy them are limited (for those who follow the rules).

Implemented in mid-May to reduce the chance of wildfires, the ban prohibited open burning, including outdoor campfires, with a few exceptions. It took effect during a severe drought, after the county saw little rain in March or April.

Fines for violating the county's order were as high as $15,000, if the burning caused irreparable or irreversible damage.

The decision to lift the ban followed a review by the Collier County Bureau of Emergency Services, the Florida Forest Service and the Collier County Fire Chiefs’ Association after a deluge of rainfall in June.

“We continue to urge residents to practice outdoor burning safety to reduce Collier County’s year-round wildfire risk and thank the public for their cooperation,” said Dan Summers, director of the Bureau of Emergency Services, in a statement.

The ban excluded all commercial agricultural burning, and lawful, controlled industrial or commercial burning that's part of the manufacturing or assembly process, and burning activities regulated by the Florida Forest Service.

Lee County ended a similar ban on June 11.

To learn more about safe burning practices visit smokeybear.com and Florida Forest Service.