Tampa, FL Fire Regulations: Outdoor Burning (2026)

Tampa's urbanized, densely populated character means open burning of household trash and yard debris is effectively prohibited within city limits under Chapter 14 (Fire Prevention Code) and state air-quality rules. The Florida Forest Service administers FL Stat 590.125, which requires burn authorizations for most outdoor fires outside municipalities, but city residents cannot rely on this — city ordinances take precedence inside Tampa. Recreational fires (small cooking/warming fires in approved pits or chimineas) are generally allowed if contained, attended, and not creating a nuisance — see backyard-fires for specifics. Land-clearing fires for developers require FDACS authorization plus local fire-marshal approval and are rarely granted in Tampa proper. During drought conditions (high KBDI), the state or county may issue burn bans that supersede any local allowances. Violations can trigger Code Enforcement fines and Tampa Fire Rescue response costs. Yard waste — palm fronds, leaves, grass clippings, storm debris — must be bagged or bundled for weekly curbside collection by Tampa Solid Waste, not burned.