Baker County declares local state of emergency and reinstates burn ban after recent wildfires

Baker County on Monday moved to curb wildfire risk, adopting Resolution 2026-O1 and reinstating a countywide burn ban after officials described a wave of recent fires and worsening drought conditions.

At an emergency meeting of the Baker County Board of County Commissioners, a fire chief (Unidentified Speaker 4) told the board that about one-third of the county is in 'extreme drought,' that several recent fires have affected mostly forested areas, and that some of those fires were preventable. 'I'm asking for you to reinstate the burn ban for Baker County, until we get some significant rain,' the chief said.

The chief said fires this month included an accidental blaze caused by a tire on a semi and other fires that appeared preventable. 'Since the first of the month, we've had about over 200 acres burned in the county,' the chief said, citing the most recent acreage estimate available to county officials at the meeting.

Following a motion to read the proposed emergency resolution, an unidentified board member read Resolution 2026-O1 aloud. The resolution, as read at the meeting, 'declares a local state of emergency in Baker County and issues a ban against burning, providing for recall of same and establishing an effective date.' The presiding officer called for a vote; those in favor said 'aye,' and the presiding officer announced that the motion carried, formally establishing the temporary burn ban.

Speakers at the meeting thanked mutual-aid partners, including the City of Jacksonville and local partners, for assistance in fighting recent fires. County representatives said they would notify and coordinate with state forestry officials and local agencies about permitted burns and ongoing response efforts; Florida Forestry retains statutory authority to approve permitted burns under appropriate conditions.

The emergency declaration and burn ban are in effect immediately as read in Resolution 2026-O1. County officials said the ban will remain until significant rain reduces wildfire risk, and that permitted burns may still be authorized on days deemed safe by Florida Forestry.

The emergency meeting concluded with the board adjourning after confirming the action.