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CHATHAM COUNTY, Ga. — Taking a firm stand against illegal fires, the Chatham County Police Department has declared it will begin issuing citations and pressing charges from Tuesday onwards. This comes as 91 counties across Georgia are still under a stringent burn ban.
Violators of the county ordinance face penalties that could include fines up to $500 and up to 30 days of imprisonment. In more severe fire cases, violators might also face state charges that could escalate to felony levels.
The police department shared via social media that while this is not their preferred approach, the heightened risk necessitates immediate action rather than warnings. “The risk is simply too great to issue warnings at this time,” stated a department representative.
This enforcement shift follows a request from the Chatham County Fire Department, emphasizing the seriousness of the situation.
The burn ban, enacted by Governor Brian Kemp, remains active until May 22 at 11:59 p.m.
If you see a fire that is an emergency, call 911. If a fire is a non-emergency, call 912-652-6500.