Hays County Commissioners Court voted July 21 to issue a burn ban for unincorporated areas of the county following the recommendation of the Hays County Fire Marshal’s Office.

The ban will be in effect for 60 days, unless it is lifted by the commissioners court. Hays County Judge Ruben Becerra will also have the authority to lift the burn ban if it is recommended by the fire marshal’s office.

Under the ban, all outdoor burning shall be supervised at all times and under controlled conditions. Residents are still allowed to grill, but no burning is to be conducted during periods of actual predicted persistent low-level humidity, according to county documents.

Violation of the burn ban guidelines will be punished as a class C misdemeanor with a fine of up to $500.

For more information on burn ban guidelines, click here.