Douglas County Reinstates Burn Ban

DOUGLASVILLE, GA — With extreme drought conditions plaguing north Georgia, Douglas County fire officials have reinstated an outdoor burning ban.

The ban is in effect until further notice.

It includes the burning of household garbage, yard waste and land-clearing debris but does not impact cooking and grilling outdoors.

"Campfires and barbeques are also exempt, although extreme caution should be taken when performing any of the allowed activities," the Douglas County Fire and Emergency Services Department said in an online notice.

No outdoor burn permits will be issued by the department until further notice.

The drought in Douglas County is classified as "extreme drought" — the second-most severe category. Counties to the immediate north and west — Carroll, Haralson, Floyd and Paulding — has been declared "exceptional drought" areas.

With no rain forecast in the next week, Douglas County could soon be added to that category.

Douglas County Fire Chief Scott Spencer is asking all residents to be mindful of the drought, and to carefully monitor even approved burning activities that could lead to wildfires.

An annual Georgia burn ban in 56 mostly metro-Atlanta counties had ended on September 30.

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