A burn ban is now in effect for unincorporated areas of Orange County and any municipalities served by Orange County Fire Rescue, including Edgewood, Belle Isle, Oakland, and Eatonville.

The ban was automatically triggered under Orange County’s Fire Prevention and Protection Ordinance after the Keetch-Byram Drought Index (KBDI) reached or exceeded 500. It prohibits all outdoor burning unless a permit has been issued. Authorized burns by the state or county are exempt, as is the use of outdoor grills or fire pits that meet the requirements outlined in Section 18-4 of the Orange County Code.

The ban will remain in place until the drought index remains below 500 for seven consecutive days. Orange County officials will announce the lift of the ban through media outlets, social media, and official county websites.

Violators risk having fires extinguished and could face enforcement actions, including citations.

Orange County Fire Rescue is urging residents to take the following precautions to reduce fire risks:

• Maintain at least 30 feet of defensible space around your home by keeping areas clean and free of flammable debris
• Remove dead vegetation and trash from your property
• Clear leaves and debris from roofs and gutters
• Prepare an emergency kit and evacuation plan, especially if your home borders undeveloped land
• Use caution when grilling, camping, or disposing of cigarettes
• Monitor local news for fire conditions, road closures, and safety updates
• Report fires immediately by calling 9-1-1
• Stay informed by downloading the OCFL Alert app and signing up for OC Alert

The burn ban is especially relevant to Horizon West residents living near conservation land, undeveloped parcels, or construction zones, where dry conditions can pose a heightened wildfire risk.

For the latest updates and safety information, visit Orange County Fire Rescue.