Harris County Commissioners Court approves burn ban

Contributed Report
Posted 6/29/22

Harris County Commissioners Court Tuesday enacted a burn ban due to an increased threat of wildfires across unincorporated Harris County.

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Harris County Commissioners Court approves burn ban

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Harris County Commissioners Court Tuesday enacted a burn ban due to an increased threat of wildfires across unincorporated Harris County. There are now 171 Texas counties with burn bans, including Harris, Galveston, Waller, Fort Bend, Brazoria and Liberty counties.

“Unprecedented temperatures and a lack of rain has elevated KBDI levels for this time of the year,” Fire Marshal Laurie L. Christensen said. “Although we have seen some rain, it's not enough to lower the drought index levels across the county. Don’t be lulled into a false sense of security with rain in parts of Harris County—the vegetation fuels are high due to drought conditions in not only open areas but, residential properties and roadways adjacent to grass and brush.”

This burn ban will not impact the sale of fireworks this Fourth of July season as it did not meet the legislative criteria for implementation based on the KBDI numbers on June 15. The fire marshal encouraged all residents to attend professional fireworks displays. If you choose to use consumer fireworks, please read the cautionary labels, have a water source near in case of emergencies, and soak used fireworks before disposing them in the trash.

No outdoor burning is allowed except:

  • In an enclosure that contains all flames and/or sparks.
  • Outdoor burning activities authorized by TCEQ
  • Approved ceremonial fires.
  • Non-commercial cooking such as backyard cookouts and barbeques are allowed.
  • Welding and other “hot work” performed in accordance with county fire code requirements.

Violation of the ban is a Class “C” misdemeanor, punishable for up to a $500 fine. In addition, any person who starts a fire that causes damage to property without the consent of the owner may be charged with Reckless Damage or Destruction, a Class C misdemeanor, or arson, a felony.

Harris County Commissioners Court, burn ban