Due to a prolonged period with little rainfall, Tarrant County Commissioners Court approved the ban beginning Aug. 18.
The outdoor burn ban prohibits any outdoor burning in unincorporated areas of Tarrant County "except burning within an enclosure which serves to contain all flames and sparks, and welding guidelines established by the county fire marshal."
According to the ban, present meteorological conditions and an abundance of dry, dead plant material have created conditions for an "imminent threat" of widespread damage, injury or loss of property as a result of a man-made fire.
A violation of the Tarrant County burn ban is punishable by a Class C misdemeanor and a fine up to $500.
County officials recommend residents in rural areas maintain a mowed area of approximately 30 feet around homes and other buildings in order to lessen the chances of fire reaching those structures.
More information and tips on outdoor burns is available through the Tarrant County Fire Marshal's Office here.
