Permits may be obtained at Station 3/Headquarters

A beach bonfire is a time-honored tradition that South Walton residents and visitors enjoy as the sun goes down over a perfect South Walton beach evening. On December 6, 2010, the South Walton Fire District (SWFD) Board of Fire Commissioners adopted an Ordinance that assumes responsibility and permitting for beach bonfires.

The Beach Bonfire Ordinance closely mirrors the previous County Ordinance on Beach Bonfires and establishes a procedure for requesting a permit, a fee structure and guidelines for conducting a beach bonfire.

“The SWFD feels it is a natural fit that we have some oversight and awareness of open burning taking place in South Walton, in particular on our beaches,” said Rick Talbert, Fire Chief.

Anyone seeking to obtain a beach bonfire permit must come to the SWFD Station 3/Headquarters, located at 911 N. CR 393, Santa Rosa Beach, Monday through Friday between 8:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. and complete a Temporary Beach Bonfire Permit Application, which requires a $50.00 fee (cash or check only).

“The beaches of South Walton provide the perfect settings for birthday and graduation parties, end of day summer barbecues and uniquely coastal Thanksgiving celebrations that include bonfires. The SWFD wants to ensure that these gatherings are safe and only leave fond memories and footprints in the sand”, said Sean Hughes, Deputy Chief.
For more information concerning beach bonfires contact Fire Marshal Sammy Sanchez at 850-267-1298 or email at info@swfd.org.