02/15/2026
‼️county wide burn ban - effective immediately‼️
McDonough County Issues County-Wide Burn Ban Due to Elevated Fire Risk
Macomb, Illinois — Due to ongoing dry conditions, elevated fire danger, and forecasted weather patterns conducive to rapid fire spread, McDonough County officials have issued a county-wide burn ban effective immediately and until further notice.
The decision was made in coordination with McDonough County Emergency Services and Disaster Agency, the McDonough County Sheriff’s Office, and local fire departments to reduce the risk of uncontrolled fires that could threaten lives, property, agricultural operations, and critical infrastructure.
Under this burn ban, the following activities are prohibited:
Open burning of brush, leaves, or yard waste
Agricultural burning
Recreational campfires and bonfires
Burning in burn barrels
Any outdoor fire not fully enclosed and controlled
The use of propane grills and commercially manufactured charcoal grills for cooking purposes remains permitted; however, residents are urged to exercise extreme caution and ensure fires are never left unattended.
Violations of the burn ban may result in fines, liability for fire suppression costs, and other penalties as allowed by law. Local law enforcement and fire agencies will actively enforce this order.
County officials will continue to monitor environmental conditions and will lift the burn ban once it is determined safe to do so.
Residents are encouraged to visit the McDonough County Emergency Services and Disaster Agency website for updates.
The mission of the McDonough County Emergency Services and Disaster Agency (MCESDA) is to protect life, property, and the environment by coordinating and supporting all-hazards emergency preparedness, response, recovery, and mitigation efforts throughout McDonough County.
