Burn Ban Remains On

Despite the forecasted rain this week, residents are reminded that the Hays County Commissioners Court placed the unincorporated areas (including extra territorial jurisdictions) of the county under a burn ban due to concerns about grass fires.

Hays County Fire Marshall Clint Browning cited a climbing drought index at the June 5 meeting, which led to the Commissioners Court placing the burn ban back on.

Charcoal, wood and gas grills with lids are exempt from the ban, but burning in “burn barrels” or fire pits (including ones with screens on the top) is not allowed. Grilling of any kind is prohibited at Hays County parks under a burn ban. Most cities already prohibit outdoor burning, but residents within city limits should check their city ordinances.

Browning also urged persons using machinery outside to be extra cautious, as a number of fires have been caused recently due to machinery sparks.

If the week does prove rainy as predicted, it may give the county means to reconsider the burn ban as we head into the Fourth of July holiday. To check the current status of the ban, visit http://www.co.hays.tx.us/fire-marshal.aspx .