Public Notice: Fire Safety Alerts and Holiday Service Changes for February 15

Extreme Drought and Wildfire Risk Advisory

Jacksonville officials, including Mayor Donna Deegan and Fire Chief Percy Golden II, have issued a critical advisory regarding elevated wildfire risks due to extreme drought conditions currently affecting Northeast Florida. As of Sunday, February 15, 2026, Duval County remains under an 'extreme drought' classification, with significantly reduced rainfall totals over the past several months.

• Burning Ban: All outdoor burning is strictly prohibited without a city permit. Residents are urged to avoid using fire pits or barbecues in areas near dry vegetation.
• Safety Precautions: Motorists are cautioned not to discard lit cigarettes from vehicles, as dry grass along roadways can ignite instantly. Property owners are encouraged to clear debris and maintain at least a 30-foot buffer of clear space around residential structures.
• Reporting: If you observe any smoke or fire, please call 911 immediately to ensure rapid response from the Jacksonville Fire and Rescue Department.

Presidents' Day Holiday Service Schedule

In observance of the Presidents' Day holiday on Monday, February 16, 2026, residents should be aware of the following changes to city services and facility operations:

• Administrative Offices: City Hall at St. James, the Ed Ball Building, and the Duval County Courthouse will be closed.
• Customer Service: The 630-CITY (2489) Customer Service Center is currently closed and will not resume operations until Tuesday, February 17, at 8:00 a.m. Residents may still submit service requests via the MyJax online portal.
• Libraries and Recreation: All Jacksonville Public Library locations and city-managed senior centers are closed through the holiday. While most parks remain open, the Tillie K. Fowler Regional Park Nature Center is closed.
• Animal Services: Animal Care & Protective Services will remain open for adoptions on the holiday from 12:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.

Infrastructure and Traffic Alerts

The Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) continues major work on the I-10 widening project. Travelers should expect the following impacts beginning the evening of Sunday, February 15:

• I-10 Lane Closures: Nighttime lane closures are scheduled from Normandy Boulevard to I-10 between 9:00 p.m. and 6:00 a.m. for ongoing road improvements.
• Ramp Detours: Expect nighttime closures for the westbound ramps to southbound Roosevelt Boulevard and the Hammond Boulevard interchange.
• Water Conservation: Due to ongoing drought conditions, a precautionary water conservation request is in effect. Residents are asked to voluntarily reduce non-essential water usage, such as lawn irrigation, to help stabilize local groundwater levels.

Upcoming Civic Meetings

City Council activities will resume following the holiday. Significant committee meetings scheduled for this week include the Special Committee on Youth Empowerment on February 17 and the Finance Committee on February 18. Agendas for these sessions are available via the city's legislative portal.