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Resolution Ratifying Declaration of Drought Emergency and Implementing Ordinance No. 2025-02
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BRIEF OVERVIEW
With the on-going lack of precipitation and increasing temperatures, Hernando County Fire Rescue and Emergency Services (HCFR) has recognized a spike in the number of brush fires.
The current Keetch-Byram Drought Index (KBDI) for Hernando County is 604 (Moderate/High) as of January 7, 2026, which is a 3-point increase over the prior days reading with the Florida Fire Service. The County is on track to reach severe drought/fire conditions. The highest rating on the scale is 800 (Desert-like conditions).
Conversations with other area fire departments have yielded the following information:
• Pasco County - Monitoring
• Citrus County - Burn Ban
• Sumter County - Monitoring
The Florida Department of Agriculture is forecasting below average precipitation as we continue through the driest months. Exceptions to the burn ban may be granted by the Florida Forest after a request for such exemption is submitted by the individual concerned, onsite inspection is made, and it is determined by the Florida Forest Service representative that such burning can be safely accomplished.
At the recommendation of the Fire Chief, the County Administrator declared a temporary burn ban. Staff is recommending ratification of the burn ban with the attached resolution.
FINANCIAL IMPACT
There is no financial impact.
LEGAL NOTE
The Board is authorized to act on this matter pursuant to Chapter 12 of the Hernando County Code and Chapter 125, Florida Statutes.
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RECOMMENDATION
It is recommended that the Board adopt and authorize the Chairman’s signature on the attached resolution to ratify the County-wide burn ban which would remain in effect until the point where the fire threat decreases and the Fire Chief and Florida Forest Service recommend rescinding the burn ban.