The Brewster County Commissioners Court has issued a countywide burn ban for unincorporated areas, prohibiting most outdoor burning from Jan. 27 through March 13, 2026, due to ongoing dry weather and heightened wildfire risk.
The order, approved under Section 352.081 of the Texas Local Government Code, cites conditions that officials say pose a significant public safety hazard if outdoor burning is allowed to continue.
Under the ban, residents may not ignite or cause the ignition of combustible or vegetative material outside of enclosed fire containers designed to prevent the spread of flames or sparks.
Fire officials are authorized to respond immediately to suspected illegal burning, and peace officers may be dispatched to investigate. Violators may face a Class C misdemeanor charge and fines of up to $500.
The order includes several exceptions. Certified prescribed burn managers, federal and state agencies, and higher education institutions conducting authorized burns for training, research, or land management purposes may continue operations with proper approval.
Small contained fires are also permitted if they are kept within metal, rock, or concrete fire rings that do not exceed 18 inches in height. Certain agricultural and land management burns may be allowed if conducted under an approved burn plan reviewed by the county’s Office of Emergency Management or local fire officials.
The ban does not prohibit burning activities allowed under Texas Commission on Environmental Quality regulations or those conducted by state-certified burn managers.
County officials said the purpose of the order is to reduce wildfire risk during the current dry period by limiting uncontrolled outdoor burning without specific authorization.
The ban is scheduled to remain in effect for 45 days unless conditions improve and the commissioners court votes to lift the restriction earlier.
Residents are encouraged to remain cautious, monitor weather conditions, and report suspected illegal burning to local authorities.
