The Public Safety department is responsible for the Board of County Commissioners' emergency response. 

The divisions under Public Safety include:

  • Administration
  • Fire Suppression
  • Emergency Medical Services
  • Emergency Management
  • Training
  • Logistics
  • Fire Prevention


HIGHLANDS COUNTY BURN IN PLACE

A burn ban is in place through 11:59 p.m., June 16, 2026, unless lifted sooner by the Fire Chief or extended by the Board of County Commissioners. 

Burn Ban Ordinances 25-26-06, 25-26-07, 25-26-10, 25-26-12

This burn ban applies to ALL areas of Highlands County, including:

  • ALL unincorporated areas including Lorida and Venus
  • Sun ’n Lake Improvement District
  • Spring Lake Improvement District
  • Within city/town limits in Avon Park, Lake Placid, and Sebring, unless a municipality has its own ordinance or charter provision in place that differs from the County’s burn ban

WHAT IS A BURN BAN?

A burn ban prohibits outdoor burning to prevent accidental and avoidable wildfires. Burn bans occur when there has been an extensive drought and dry vegetation could easily ignite and start a fire.

What Is NOT Allowed

During the burn ban, the following are prohibited:

  • Campfires, bonfires, warming fires
  • Outdoor fireplaces and open cooking fires
  • Outdoor pyrotechnic displays (including fireworks)
  • Burning yard waste, vegetation, lumber, or trees
  • Burning household trash or debris
  • Unpermitted controlled burns

What IS Allowed

Cooking only on a contained gas or charcoal grill

Activities specifically authorized by the Florida Forest Service

Why This Matters

Burn bans are issued during drought conditions when dry vegetation can ignite quickly, leading to dangerous wildfires that threaten lives, homes, firefighters, and the environment.

Burn bans are set county by county based on local conditions. While rules may differ elsewhere, Highlands County’s burn ban applies here and must be followed, even if another county allows burning or fireworks.

Enforcement

Any person who refuses to comply or violates this burn ban shall be punished according to the law. This misdemeanor offense is punishable by a fine not exceeding $500 or by imprisonment by a term not to exceed 60 days in the county jail or both.