Burn Ban Still In Place Despite Rain

Much needed rain across northeast Georgia has not yet caused a lifting of burning restrictions.

Since this week’s rain event started, downtown Toccoa has received 1.84 inches of rain and more is in the forecast.

However, Stephens County Volunteer Fire Services is reminding people that a burn ban remains in place for the county and all outdoor burning is prohibited.

That burn ban was first approved for the county by Stephens County Commissioners earlier this month and then was also passed by Toccoa City Commissioners on Monday.

It applies to all open flames outdoors.

That includes warming fires, campfires, fire pits, cooking fires, chimineas, burning barrel fires, fire rings, and fireworks.

Violating the burn ban can result in fines both within the Toccoa city limits and in the unincorporated parts of Stephens County.

Under the burn ban, the first offense results in a $100 fine, the second offense is a $300 fine, and the third offense will result in a $500 fine.