Alachua County has declared a Local State of Emergency in response to active wildfires burning within the county that have not been fully contained. The declaration is intended to help county government quickly allocate resources, carry out emergency response plans, and protect lives and property.
The emergency proclamation took effect at 1 p.m. on April 20, 2026, and remains in effect for seven days unless extended or terminated by further action.
Read the Declaration.
While the City of Gainesville’s Fire Rescue Department continues to be the lead agency in charge of the response to the fires within the city, this declaration will allow the county to better assist in this effort. It will also give Alachua County the ability to better respond to the State Road 26 fire and any new fires.
County officials said the declaration will allow Alachua County to respond more efficiently as conditions develop and, if necessary, issue evacuation orders and open shelters to move residents out of harm’s way.
Under the declaration, the county may waive certain procedures and formalities in order to respond more rapidly to the wildfire threat. This includes actions related to public works, contracts, financial obligations, temporary staffing, equipment rental, acquisition and distribution of supplies and materials, and expenditure of public funds.
The proclamation also authorizes the county manager, or her designee, to exercise emergency powers allowed under Florida law for the duration of the emergency, including measures considered necessary to reduce the risk of loss of life, injury, damage and property loss in Alachua County.
This declaration reflects the county’s intent to act quickly and decisively in response to the wildfire threat, strengthen emergency operations, and ensure resources are available to safeguard the community.
For more information, contact Alachua County Communications Director Mark Sexton at 352-264-6979 or msexton@alachuacounty.us.
