The burn ban is back in effect in unincorporated areas of Hays County, as of today. County Judge Bert Cobb consulted with Hays County Fire Marshal Clint Browning, and, based on windy conditions and low humidity throughout much of the county, the decision to reinstate the burn ban was made. According to a county news release, the number of grass fires and house fires has risen throughout the county, and experts are not anticipating county-wide rains soon. Grills with lids are permitted for use during burn bans, but burn barrels are not allowed. Violators of the city’s burn ban could be fined $500 for violations, according to the news release.