Flagler County officials issued a burn ban effective 5 p.m. Friday, February 6, 2026, declaring a state of local emergency in response to increasingly dangerous wildfire conditions. The ban will remain in effect for seven days.
Flagler County Fire Rescue Chief Michael Tucker explained the decision was driven by environmental factors that have created ideal conditions for fires to spread quickly. “The conditions have become favorable for rapid fire growth, so this action will help reduce our community’s risk,” Tucker said.
The county cited several factors behind the emergency declaration. Flagler County is currently experiencing severe drought conditions, and the Keetch Byram Drought Index level, which measures drought and fire danger, is increasing daily. Weather forecasts show no significant rainfall expected over the next seven days.
Under the burn ban, residents are prohibited from using, igniting, or discharging fireworks, sparklers, flares, or other items containing explosive compounds. Open burning is also banned, including campfires, fire pits, and similar containers. The ban further prohibits throwing matches, cigarettes, or other burning materials from vehicles and parking vehicles with catalytic converters in high grassy areas.
Outdoor cooking remains permitted under specific conditions. Residents may use outdoor cookers, grills, and similar cooking equipment only when an adult is continuously present and attending the fire.
Chief Tucker urged residents to take proactive steps to protect their properties from potential wildfires. “In addition to the ban on burning, remember that a good offense is the best defense. Clear the area around your house of anything that will go up in flames easily – including stacks of firewood, portable propane tanks, and dead, dry vegetation,” he said.
Fire prevention guidelines accepted by agencies including the National Fire Protection Association recommend removing all flammable items within 30 feet of any structure. Homeowners should also clear leaves, needles, and other debris from roofs, eaves, gutters, wood decks, and patios.
Tucker offered additional advice for reducing fire risk around homes. “Additionally, do not store things under decks or porches, and consider using rocks or gravel in those areas instead of grass or mulch,” he said. “Wood-driven fires, like brushfires, create embers that can be carried quite far, and tend to find their way to the same nooks and crannies where leaves accumulate.”
