ANDREWS, Texas – In a Tuesday morning session, the Andrews County Commissioners Court voted to lift the countywide outdoor burn ban that had been in place for several months. The decision restores the ability of landowners and ranchers to conduct controlled burns, a practice many use to manage vegetation, improve pasture health, and reduce wildfire risk.
Procedural requirements remain
While the ban is lifted, the County Fire Marshal emphasized that safety protocols are still mandatory. Anyone planning a controlled burn must first call the Andrews County Sheriff’s Office at 432‑523‑5545 to provide notice of the intended activity. The notification should include the location, date, time, and estimated duration of the burn.
During the burn, a responsible adult must remain on the property at all times. This person must have a means to extinguish the fire quickly and be prepared to contact emergency services if the fire spreads beyond the intended area. The Fire Marshal’s Office can be reached for additional guidance at 432‑524‑1429.
Why the ban was imposed
The outdoor burn ban was originally enacted in response to a period of heightened fire danger, marked by low humidity, strong winds, and dry vegetation across West Texas. County officials cited concerns for public safety and the protection of natural resources. Over the past weeks, weather conditions have improved, and the fire danger rating has been lowered, prompting the Commissioners Court to revisit the restriction.
Community response
Local ranchers and landowners expressed relief at the decision, noting that controlled burns are an essential tool for maintaining healthy rangeland. “We rely on prescribed fires to keep our pastures productive and to prevent larger, uncontrolled wildfires,” said a longtime Andrews County farmer who asked to remain unnamed. The county’s agricultural community also highlighted the economic benefits of being able to manage land more effectively.
Some residents voiced caution, reminding neighbors that even with the ban lifted, responsible fire management is critical. The Fire Marshal reiterated that the county will continue to monitor weather conditions and may reinstate the ban if fire risk escalates again.
What’s next for fire safety in Andrews County
The Commissioners Court indicated that it will review fire safety policies on a regular basis, especially during periods of extreme weather. County officials plan to hold an informational session later this month to walk residents through the proper steps for conducting safe, controlled burns. Materials and resources will also be posted on the county’s official website.
For any questions about the new procedures or to request a fire safety briefing, residents are encouraged to contact the Andrews County Fire Marshal’s Office directly.
Original reporting: CBS7 / First Alert 7 KOSA (Gray) — read the source article.
