Sanibel Fire & Rescue District issues burn ban

SANIBEL, Fla. —

A strict burn ban is now in effect on Sanibel after Lee County commissioners approved a countywide ban during their meeting Tuesday, prompting local fire officials to immediately halt all outdoor burning on the island.

The Sanibel Fire Rescue District announced the ban Thursday in coordination with the Lee County Board of County Commissioners and the county’s declared state of local emergency, citing extremely dry conditions across Southwest Florida.

The ban prohibits all beach campfires, bonfires and outdoor burning, including trash and yard waste fires. All existing campfire permits have been revoked, and no new permits will be issued for the remainder of the 2025–2026 season, fire officials said.

Sanibel's permitted beach campfire season had been scheduled to end Feb. 14, but officials said worsening environmental conditions left no choice but to end the season early.

Fire officials say grills may still be used for cooking, provided they are attended and monitored at all times.

Fire Chief Kevin Barbot said the district will continue to monitor conditions alongside Lee County officials and the Florida Forest Service.

Sanibel is among several Gulf Coast communities currently under active burn bans. Similar restrictions are in effect in Collier, Hendry, Cape Coral, Charlotte, DeSoto and Glades counties as dry weather continues to heighten wildfire concerns across the region.

Officials urge residents and visitors to comply with the ban to help protect homes, wildlife and natural areas until conditions improve.

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