Rankin County extends burn ban through May 1

RANKIN COUNTY, Mississippi — Rankin County officials have extended the county’s burn ban through May 1 or until weather conditions improve, officials said Friday. Contractors who follow Mississippi Department of Environmental Quality guidelines remain allowed to conduct burns, but all other restrictions stay in place.

County leaders said recent rainfall brought some relief to the area but was not enough to ease an ongoing moisture deficit. Officials asked residents to continue avoiding all non-approved burning activities as they work to reduce fire risk and protect the community.

Burn bans are a preventive measure used by local governments during dry conditions to lower the likelihood of wildfires, protect homes and infrastructure and reduce impacts to air quality. The Mississippi Department of Environmental Quality sets state guidelines for open burning and air emissions; local authorities may allow exceptions for contractors who meet those standards.

Officials did not provide additional details on enforcement or permit procedures. We will provide more information as it becomes available.