Venice Fire Rescue Chief Frank Giddens has issued a citywide recreational burn ban effective Saturday, Oct. 11 due to the dry weather conditions that pose a risk for increased wildfire potential.

This burn ban mirrors a countywide ban issued by the Sarasota County Fire Department.

Under Sarasota County’s burn ban ordinance (Sarasota County Code Section 58-2), burn bans automatically go into effect countywide and prohibit almost all open burning when the Keetch-Byram Drought Index (KBDI) meets or exceeds 500.

Outdoor cooking fires in approved grills such as gas or charcoal BBQ grills are permitted; however, extreme caution is urged with these devices as well. Fire pits/cooking pits are not permitted. Remember to not leave a grill unattended and make sure coals are completely cooled before disposing.

The citywide burn ban prohibits all outdoor burning that has not been specifically permitted by the Florida Forest Service. Bonfires, campfires, and the burning of vegetative (yard) debris is not allowed. Should a wildfire erupt, nearby residents are urged to follow directions from authorities. This may include evacuations of localized areas.

The burn ban will automatically lift after the drought index falls below 500 for seven consecutive days.

We ask all residents to stay vigilant during these dry conditions.