Outdoor burning rules in Winter Haven, FL — also called the burn ban, open burning, or fire restriction ordinance — set when you can burn yard waste, debris, or run a recreational fire.
Outdoor burning of yard waste in Winter Haven is regulated by Code Chapter 6 (Fire Prevention and Protection), the Florida Fire Prevention Code, and Florida Forest Service authority (FS §590.125). During Polk County burn bans all open burning - including campfires, fire pits, and yard-waste burning - is prohibited.
Under Florida Statute §590.125 and the Florida Administrative Code 5I-2, open burning of yard waste on residential lots in Polk County is limited to natural vegetation grown on the property and requires the fire be set in a non-combustible container 8 feet from any structure, 25 feet from forest, attended at all times, and only between 9 a.m. and one hour before sunset. Trash, leaves bagged elsewhere, and treated wood may not be burned. The Winter Haven Fire Prevention Division (863-291-5692) reviews larger or commercial burns. When the Polk County Board of County Commissioners issues a burn ban (most recently November 2025), no outdoor burning is allowed including recreational fire pits. Check Florida Forest Service Authorization (1-877-4FL-BURN) before any burn.
Open burning during a burn ban or without compliance with FAC 5I-2 is a second-degree misdemeanor under FS §590.125(7) - up to 60 days jail, $500 fine, plus restitution. Local Ch. 6 violations carry Special Magistrate fines up to $250/day.
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