Dry Season Fire Safety & Burn Ban Information

Protecting Royal Palm Beach During Dry Season

During dry season, a lack of rainfall combined with high winds creates prime conditions for fast-moving and uncontrollable brush fires, also known as wildfires. These fires can ignite from discarded smoking materials, equipment malfunctions, hot engine components, unattended generators, or naturally from lightning strikes.

Palm Beach County Fire Rescue urges residents to take proactive steps now to protect homes, families, and property.

Landscaping & Defensible Space Guidelines

Creating a defensible space around your home can significantly slow the spread of flames and reduce fire risk.

  • Keep trees trimmed and ensure branches do not touch structures.
  • Maintain clear primary and secondary exits in case a quick evacuation is necessary. Remove storage items and combustible materials from under decks, balconies, and outdoor stairs.
  • Use non-combustible ground cover such as rock or decorative stone within five (5) feet of your home and nearby structures.
  • Avoid using combustible materials such as wood bark, mulch, or plastic ground coverings close to structures.
  • Regularly remove dead trees, dry leaves, pine needles, and other vegetation. Even small embers can ignite dry debris.
  • Never discard cigarettes or cigars on the ground. Always use proper ashtrays or ash cans filled with sand and ensure materials are fully extinguished.

Fire-Resistant Construction & Maintenance

Building materials and routine maintenance play a key role in fire protection.

  • Roof materials such as metal, concrete, clay tiles, and composite shingles offer the strongest protection.
  • Double-paned tempered glass windows and siding materials such as brick, plaster, or stucco provide greater fire resistance.
  • Install mesh screening over attic and roof vents to prevent embers from entering the home.
  • Keep gutters clear of dry leaves and debris to reduce ignition risk.

Vehicle & Generator Safety Warning

Hot engine components can easily ignite grass and brush.

  • Do not operate vehicles, portable generators, or powered equipment on grass or soft ground.
  • Only operate equipment on hard, paved surfaces.
  • Never leave running engines or generators unattended.

Active Burn Ban

An active burn ban is currently in effect throughout Palm Beach County. The following activities are prohibited:

  • Yard waste burning
  • Bonfires
  • Firepits
  • Burning to clear land
  • Ceremonial burning

Exception: Agricultural burns permitted in accordance with the Florida Forest Service.

Work Together to Prevent Wildfires

By following these safety precautions and prevention strategies, we can work together to protect our homes, neighbors, and the Royal Palm Beach community during dry season.

QUESTIONS? Contact the Palm Beach County Fire Marshal’s Office at FIRE-MARSHAL@pbc.org

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