Burn ban reinstated in Hays County effective May 28

Citing a weather forecast calling for high winds and low humidity, Hays County Judge Ruben Becerra issued an emergency burn ban order for the Memorial Day weekend.

Beginning at 8 a.m. on May 28, the ban will expire at 8 p.m. May 31.

“In consultation with the Hays County fire marshal, I believe the current circumstances in the unincorporated areas of Hays County create a public safety hazard that would be exacerbated by outdoor burning,” Becerra said in a press release.

Hays County Fire Marshall Mark Wobus said in the release that an increase in fire activity was possible even in areas of the county that received rainfall earlier this week.

A violation of the order is considered a Class C misdemeanor that could result in a $500 fine.

Fires used for camping and cooking are exempt from the ban so long as they are contained in an appropriate structure or pit that can adequately prevent spread.

Following significant rain events at the end of April, the Hays County Commissioners Court voted unanimously to lift the burn ban April 26, as previously reported by Community Impact Newspaper.