Denton County Issues Burn Ban

Denton County, as well as most of North Texas, is again experiencing dry weather with little chance for relief in the immediate future.  The summer vegetation is already dying and becoming very dry with the lack of rainfall during the late spring and early summer.  The Denton County burn ban began Tuesday, July 22 and will continue until drought conditions are alleviated.

The mandatory burn ban will ban all outdoor burning, including restrictions on outdoor hot work (welding and cutting torch operations), and the use of combustible materials.  Combustible materials include, but are not limited to, the use of all fireworks, discarding of cigarettes or other flammable materials, as well as materials used in activities such as welding and any other activity that could result in a fire within Denton County.

Violation of the court ordered burn-ban is a class C misdemeanor punishable by a fine not to exceed $500.  County Judge Mary Horn stated: "Prevention of potential wildland fires is essential to the safety of County residents.  Wildfires can be devastating and difficult on everyone, especially farmers and ranchers; wildfires can destroy not only lives and property, but livelihood as well.  With everyone's help we can make our communities safer places to live and enjoy life."

For questions, concerns or complaints about outdoor burning and information on outdoor welding regulations, contact the Denton County Department of Emergency Services at 940-349-2840.