Burn ban issued in Austin parks; residents advised against building fires with high wildfire risk expected this weekend, March 18-20

With high fire danger forecast throughout Central Texas this weekend, the city of Austin issued a burn ban in city parks and advised residents against other outdoor burning activity.

The city burning restriction went into effect March 18 and prohibits visitors at city parks, preserves and greenbelts from grilling or lighting fires. Propane stoves may still be used in picnic areas, city officials said. Burn ban violations are punishable by $300-$500 fines.

"Dangerous fire conditions currently exist in the Central Texas area. In accordance with established criteria, the parks and recreation department has issued a parks burning restriction effective March 18, 2022, to ensure the safety of park patrons and surrounding communities, while minimizing the wildfire risk in the city’s parks and greenbelts," parks department officials said in an email.

Department officials said it will lift burning restrictions once it is determined safe to do so.

Aside from Austin parkland, the city fire department also advised residents to refrain from grilling or lighting fires over the weekend. In a tweet, the department also said to avoid activities such as lawn mowing, parking vehicles on dry grass and leaving smoking cigarette butts behind.

The weekend burning restrictions come as much of the city, especially on the western side, remains at elevated or high wildfire risk. More information on wildfire response is available online.