What is a burn ban?
A burn ban is a temporary restriction on outdoor burning in a county or area. It’s usually put in place during dry or windy conditions to reduce the risk of wildfires. While a ban is in effect, activities like burning brush, having campfires, or using certain outdoor equipment may be limited or prohibited.
Who issues burn bans in Texas?
Burn bans in Texas are issued by county governments—typically the county judge or commissioners court. Each county decides when to put a burn ban in effect and when to lift it based on local conditions.
Where does your data come from?
Our data comes from the Texas A&M Forest Service, which maintains an official map and dataset of county burn ban status across the state. We use that same public information so you can see which counties are under a burn ban in one place.
How often is the data updated?
We pull the latest data from the Texas A&M Forest Service when you load or refresh the map. Their data is updated as counties report changes. Because conditions can change quickly, it’s still a good idea to confirm with your county if you need to be certain.
Is this the official legal source of truth?
No. This site is an informational tool. The official source for burn ban status in your area is your county government. For legal purposes, exemptions, or exact start/end dates, always check your county’s website or contact your county officials.
Can I get fined for violating a burn ban?
Yes. Violating a county burn ban can result in fines and other penalties. Rules vary by county. If your county is under a burn ban, follow local restrictions and check with your county for details.
Why does my county not match what I expected?
Counties update their burn ban status at different times, and there can be a short delay before the Texas A&M Forest Service reflects that change. If you believe the status shown here is wrong, verify with your county and consider contacting us so we can look into it.
Should I still check my county website?
Yes. We recommend checking your county’s official site for the latest orders, end dates, and any local exceptions or rules. Our checker is meant to give you a quick overview—your county has the final word for your area.