The Tarrant County Commissioners court approved a burn ban in the unincorporated areas of the county Aug. 20.

No outdoor burning is allowed without the approval of the Tarrant County Fire Marshal’s Office for the next 90 days.

Cooking, welding and the use of fire pits for social gatherings are allowed, according to a news release.

“We encourage all Tarrant County residents to take these precautions and be safe during this time of extreme drought conditions,” Tarrant County Interim Fire Marshal David Butler said.

What’s happening


The severe drought conditions in unincorporated areas of Tarrant County have prompted Butler to request the ban on outdoor burning. The Texas A&M Forest Service supported the county's request for an outdoor burning ban, according to a news release.

The county advises residents to remove unwanted combustible debris and vegetation away from their homes and to be sure to keep water hoses accessible in the event a small fire starts.

The context

A violation of the court order prohibiting outdoor burning is a Class C misdemeanor with a fine up to $500, according to the county website.


To report someone illegally burning outdoors, call the Tarrant County Regional Communications at 817-232-9800 or the Tarrant County Sheriff’s Office at 817-884-1315