Outdoor Burning: Dover vs Tampa
How do outdoor burning rules compare between Dover, FL and Tampa, FL?
Dover has fewer restrictions than Tampa.
Dover, FL
Hillsborough County
Open burning of yard waste in unincorporated Hillsborough County requires a Florida Forest Service authorization and must follow FAC 5I-2. Piles must be under 8 feet, set back 25 feet from woods and 50 feet from structures, and attended at all times. Burning household trash is prohibited.
View full Dover rules →Tampa, FL
Hillsborough County
Open burning of yard waste is heavily restricted in Tampa. Inside city limits, residential open burning of trash, leaves, and land-clearing debris is generally prohibited — yard debris must go curbside for city pickup. Florida Statute 590.125 and Florida Forest Service (FDACS) rules govern any allowed burning statewide, and Hillsborough County frequently falls under burn bans during dry spells.
View full Tampa rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Dover | Tampa |
|---|---|---|
| Authorization | FL Forest Service required | - |
| Hours | 9 AM to 1 hour before sunset | - |
| Pile Size | Under 8 feet diameter | - |
| Setback | 25 ft woods, 50 ft structures | - |
| Trash | Prohibited | - |
| - | - |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Dover FAQ
Who enforces this in Hillsborough County?
Hillsborough County code enforcement at (813) 272-5900 handles complaints.
Who enforces this in Hillsborough County?
Hillsborough County code enforcement at (813) 272-5900 handles complaints.
Tampa FAQ
Can I burn leaves in my backyard in Tampa?
No. Tampa prohibits burning of yard waste and trash within city limits. Use the weekly curbside yard-waste pickup instead.
How do I know if there's a current burn ban?
Check the Florida Forest Service website or Hillsborough County emergency management. Bans track the Keetch-Byram Drought Index.
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