Bulloch County passes temporary outdoor burn ban due to severe drought conditions

STATESBORO, Ga. (WTOC) - The Bulloch County Board of Commissioners approved an emergency ordinance on Friday to temporarily restrict outdoor burning across unincorporated areas of the county, citing prolonged dry weather and rising wildfire risks.

The ordinance, approved during a special meeting on Friday, July 31, takes effect on Saturday, Aug. 1, 2026. It will remain in place until local drought conditions improve and county commissioners formally vote to rescind it.

Under the temporary restriction, residents are prohibited from burning yard debris outdoors, including leaves, tree limbs, grass, and other vegetative matter.

“Bulloch County has experienced prolonged dry weather resulting in drought conditions,” the ordinance states, noting that the conditions have “significantly increased the risk of wildfires and the spread of uncontrolled fires.”

What is exempt?

While yard debris burning is strictly banned, the county has carved out specific exemptions under the ordinance:

• Cooking fires: Burning is allowed for cooking in approved grills or fire pits, provided the fire is constantly attended and complies with safety regulations.
• Agricultural/Forestry burns: Prescribed agricultural or forestry burns remain permitted if conducted under a valid permit issued by the Georgia Forestry Commission.
• Government/Forestry burns: Controlled burns conducted by authorized government agencies for public safety or forestry management are exempt.

Enforcement and Penalties

The ordinance will be enforced by Bulloch County Fire Department personnel, county code enforcement officers, and other designated county officials.

Violators will face prosecution in Bulloch County Magistrate Court. The maximum penalty for violating the burn ban is a fine of up to $1,000, imprisonment for up to 60 days, or both.