Nearly eight out of 10 wildfires in Florida are human-caused. Some are intentional. Arson is a serious crime that not only threatens homes, property and valuable natural resources, but also places the lives of Floridians and our first responders at risk. The best way to stop arsonists is to let them know you’re watching. If you see suspicious activity, report it. We cannot tolerate anyone who intentionally endangers residents or Florida’s natural resources.
Willful, malicious or intentional burning of forest, grass or woodlands not owned by the person burning is a felony, punishable by a fine of up to $5,000, five years in prison or both.
To report suspicious wildfire activity, contact the Florida Forestry Arson Alert Association at 1-800-342-5869 or your local Florida Forest Service field office.
- Callers remain anonymous.
- Information that leads to the apprehension of an arsonist could result in a reward of up to $5,000.
When reporting suspected woods arson activity, callers should remember the following tips:
- Do not approach the suspect.
- After calling 911, call 1-800-342-5869.
- Identify vehicle descriptions and license plates.
- Identify physical descriptions of suspects.
- Identify the location where the suspicious behavior was observed.
The Florida Forestry Arson Alert Association is a nonprofit organization formed in 1986 by the Florida Legislature under the auspices of the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services. Created as a vehicle to increase public awareness about woods arson, the association furthers its mission by distributing rewards for information about incidents of this senseless crime. To learn more or to join the Florida Forestry Arson Alert Association, visit FDACS.gov/ForestryArsonAlert.
More Arson Awareness Resources
- FDACS.gov/ForestryArsonAlert
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Arson Poster
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Forestry Arson Alert Association Brochure
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