After a stretch of recent rainfall, the Keetch-Byram Drought Index dropped below 500 for seven straight days, signaling enough improvement to drop the ban. Still, the danger isn’t gone. Much of Sarasota County remains in a drought, and officials warn the ban could return if dry weather sticks around. They’re watching the conditions closely.

For residents, safety takes top priority. Even with the ban gone, stick to all existing local rules for open burning. That means following the Sarasota County Fire Department’s ordinances with backyard fires, burning debris, and using fireworks or sparklers. One careless move can start a blaze, so stay careful and alert.

Regularly checking the Sarasota County Government website is advisable because conditions can change quickly, and they will post updates there. The burn ban is off for now, but extreme caution is still the rule.

Click here for a link to The Sarasota County Fire Department website for updates.

The post Sarasota County Lifts Burn Ban After Recent Rain Eases Wildfire Threat appeared first on Englewood Review.

But they’re not letting their guard down. Most of Sarasota County is still dealing with drought, and rain isn’t in the forecast. There’s a real chance they’ll bring the ban back if conditions get worse.

The original ban went into effect on October 11, 2025, when the county’s drought index hit 500, as specified in county code. Now that wildfire risk dipped, fire department officials lifted restrictions, but they’re still watching things closely. They’re asking everyone to stay careful, keep up with the open burning rules laid out in county regulations, and don’t take unnecessary risks.

If conditions get dry again and the KBDI climbs back to 500 or higher, the county will automatically reinstate the ban. It’s smart to keep checking county updates for the latest status.

Meanwhile, there has been some confusion as to whether or not North Port has lifted its burn ban. Englewood REVIEW reached out to the North Port Fire Rescue for comment. They say that in accordance with the city ordinance 26-28, Fire Chief Scott Titus has rescinded the burn ban, and it no longer exists. A public notice will be posted on Monday, April 20, 2026.

Officials recommend the Ready, Set, Go!approach for wildfire safety:

Ready: Plan for possible evacuations and create defensible space around your house to help protect it.

Set: Pull together emergency supplies, talk through your plan with family or roommates, and stay up to date through news sources and the county’s website or social media.

Go: If you’re told to evacuate, do it right away and follow your emergency plan.

For more details on wildfire safety and how to protect your home, visit scgov.net/fire.

The post Sarasota County Lifts Burn Ban: Cautious Optimism Amid Drought Challenges appeared first on Englewood Review.