Published: December 29, 2025
Bartow, Fla. (Dec. 29, 2025) — As Polk County continues experiencing unseasonably dry weather conditions, Polk County’s burn ban remains in effect. The ban prohibits the setting off of noncommercial fireworks but does not forbid professional firework shows.
The burn ban is determined using the Keetch-Byram Drought Index (KBDI). The KBDI is a continuous reference scale, ranging from 0 to 800. It assesses the moisture content from no moisture deficiency (0) to maximum drought conditions (800) of the soil. This helps predict the potential for wildfires.
As the lack of rainfall persists, the KBDI has steadily increased in recent weeks, and the upcoming 10-day forecast predicts a minimal amount of rain. If the forecasts are correct, then the KBDI’s current upward trend will continue to rise.
Areas of Polk County covered by the ban includes unincorporated Polk County and the following municipalities: Auburndale, Bartow, Davenport, Dundee, Fort Meade, Frostproof, Haines City, Lake Alfred, Lake Wales, Lakeland and Winter Haven.
The burn ban also prohibits:
• Campfires;
• Bonfires;
• Unpermitted controlled burns;
• Burning of yard and household trash;
• Burning of organic debris; and
• Noncommercial burning of materials, other than for religious or ceremonial purposes, which is not contained in a barbecue grill or barbecue pit, and the total fuel area cannot exceed 3 feet in diameter and 2 feet in height.
If you’re interested in viewing fireworks, check your local cities websites for information about permitted professional shows.
Anyone who refuses to comply or violates this burn ban shall be in violation of Polk County Ordinance 08-015 and can be punished by a fine not to exceed $500 or by imprisonment not to exceed 60 days in the county jail or both.
Polk County officials may repeal the burn ban when deemed safe.