Collier County Sets Burn Ban with $15,000 Fine for Breaking Rules

Collier County put a burn ban in place on Feb. 11, 2025. Anyone who breaks the rules and causes major damage could face fines of up to $15,000. Officials made this call because of extremely dry conditions across most of the area.

The ban stops people from having open fires, outdoor burning, and trash burning outside city limits. Farmers, approved industrial burning, and Florida Forest Service work are allowed to continue. People can still use grills, stoves, cookers, and smokers for outdoor food preparation.

While it wasn't on the agenda, county manager Amy Patterson was ready with the necessary approvals to put the ban into place. County leaders moved quickly after talking with Collier County Emergency Management and Florida Forest Service officials, with everyone agreeing to move forward with the burn ban.

While Lee County hasn't set a burn ban yet, the ban for Collier County will remain in effect until further notice.