06/11/2026
Worcester County officials are reminding residents and visitors that the countywide burn ban issued on May 4, 2026, remains in effect until further notice. The ban was implemented due to continued dry conditions, below-normal rainfall, and declining groundwater levels that significantly increase the risk of rapidly spreading outdoor fires.
Since the burn ban was enacted, fire officials have continued to monitor weather conditions, precipitation totals, and environmental indicators throughout the county. While portions of the region have received isolated rainfall, conditions remain sufficiently dry to warrant continued restrictions on outdoor burning activities.
"Protecting our communities, visitors, and responding emergency personnel remains our top priority," said Worcester County Fire Marshal Matthew Owens. "Even a small outdoor fire can quickly spread under current conditions, threatening homes, businesses, agricultural properties, and environmentally sensitive areas."
The burn ban prohibits all outdoor burning activities within Worcester County, including debris burning and open burning operations. The following exceptions remain in effect:
• Proper use of gas and charcoal grills
• Campfires at commercial campgrounds
• Campfires at State and Federal campgrounds
• Permitted official Town of Ocean City bonfires
• Private recreational campfires limited to a fire area of two feet in diameter and three feet in height
• Public fireworks displays
• Authorized volunteer fire company training exercises
All previously issued outdoor burn permits remain rescinded and no new burn permits will be issued while the burn ban remains in effect.
Residents are encouraged to exercise caution with any approved ignition source and to properly dispose of smoking materials. Fire officials also remind the public that sparks from equipment, vehicles, grills, and campfires can ignite dry vegetation and lead to dangerous fire conditions.
The Worcester County Fire Marshal's Office, Department of Environmental Programs, and local fire departments will continue to monitor conditions and evaluate the need for the burn ban. The restriction will remain in place until environmental conditions improve sufficiently to allow for the safe resumption of outdoor burning activities.
For additional information regarding the burn ban, contact the Worcester County Fire Marshal's Office at (410) 632-5666
