Bastrop County Judge Gregory Klaus issued a burn ban for unincorporated areas March 14, which will remain in effect through March 19.

What you need to know

The burn ban order outlines the following enforcement measures for outdoor fires:

• The fire department will respond to extinguish the fire.
• An investigation will be conducted to determine the nature of the fire, potentially leading to a citation for violating the burn ban.
• Violators may face a fine of up to $500.

A detailed list of activities allowed and prohibited during a burn ban is available on the Texas Commissioner on Environmental Quality website.

How we got here

Per the disaster declaration, the burn ban was implemented due to the recent and predicted lack of significant rainfall in Bastrop County. The declaration warns that the ongoing dry conditions increase the risk of large, fast-moving wildfires that could be difficult to control.

What else?

Those with questions can contact James Altgelt, Bastrop County emergency management coordinator, at 512-581-4022.