Travis County ends burn ban for unincorporated areas
Fire Marshal Gary Howell cites improved moisture levels and lower wildfire risk as the reason for the Nov. 3 change.
By Robert Herrera ·
Residents in the unincorporated parts of Travis County can burn trash, debris, and brush outdoors again as of Nov. 3. The county fire marshal's office officially ended the restriction earlier that day.
The ban was in place to protect the area from wildfires during dry periods. It applied only to areas outside city limits. Residents in incorporated parts of the county were not affected by this specific order.
Travis County Fire Marshal Gary Howell said recent weather changes allowed the office to lift the ban. Howell stated that improved moisture levels had lowered the risk of wildfires across the county. He noted that outdoor burning still carries risks and urged residents to exercise caution.
Officials directed residents to follow state regulations found in Texas Administrative Code Section 30 TAC 111.219. The code outlines specific rules for outdoor burning. Residents must contact their local fire department before starting a fire and obtain any required permits.
The county recommended keeping water or a fire extinguisher nearby during burning. Residents should call 911 immediately if a fire gets out of control. The Travis County Fire Marshal's Office can be reached at 512-854-4621 to help identify the correct department to notify.
People can sign up for future updates by texting TCBURNBAN to 888777. This service provides alerts when burn bans are issued or lifted in the future.
Source: KTBC
