Orange County Burn Bans Rules (2026) — What You Need to Know
Heavy RestrictionsKey Facts
- Trigger
- Drought index ≥ 500 (KBDI)
- Scope
- All open fires prohibited
- BBQ Exemption
- ≤ 3 ft diameter, ≤ 2 ft height
- Lift Condition
- Index < 500 for 7 consecutive days
- Governing Code
- Section 18-4
- Adopted
- February 2018
The Short Version
Orange County automatically institutes a burn ban when the local drought index (Keetch-Byram Drought Index) meets or exceeds 500. During a burn ban, all open fires are prohibited, including campfires, bonfires, and yard burning. BBQ grills with a fuel area no larger than 3 feet in diameter and 2 feet in height are exempt. The ban lifts automatically after the drought index falls below 500 for seven consecutive days.
Full Breakdown
The Orange County Board of County Commissioners approved the burn ban ordinance (Section 18-4) in February 2018, replacing the previous system that required the Mayor to issue a declaration of emergency. Under the current ordinance, a burn ban is triggered automatically when the Keetch-Byram Drought Index (KBDI) for the county reaches or exceeds 500.
During an active burn ban, all open fires of any type are prohibited in unincorporated Orange County. This includes campfires, bonfires, fire pits, yard waste burning, and trash burning. The ban applies to all residents and properties within the unincorporated county.
There are limited exemptions during a burn ban. Firework displays that have been properly permitted by the county remain allowed. Cooking on barbecue grills or pits is also permitted, but only when the total fuel area does not exceed three feet in diameter and two feet in height. Any other valid state or county authorized burn may also proceed. The burn ban lifts automatically once the drought index falls below 500 for seven consecutive days, without requiring any action by the Board of County Commissioners.
What Happens If You Violate This?
Violating the burn ban is a code enforcement matter that can result in fines and other penalties. Given the fire danger conditions that trigger the ban, violations may also result in liability for any property damage or wildfire costs that result from the prohibited fire.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know if a burn ban is currently in effect in Orange County?
Can I use my BBQ grill during a burn ban?
What triggers the burn ban automatically?
Sources & Official References
Related Ordinances in Orange County
How does Orange County compare?
See how Orange County's burn bans rules stack up against other locations.