Chief Fire Marshal Gary Howell announced Nov. 3 that Travis County is lifting the outdoor burning ban that has been in effect for the unincorporated areas since Aug. 11. The decision was based on recent rainfall that has reduced wildfire danger, according to county records and a news release.
What the lift means for residents
Homeowners in unincorporated parts of the county may now burn brush, leaves and other plant growth that originates on their own property. The county also permits the burning of household trash, but only for homes that do not receive regular trash‑collection service. Items such as tires, furniture, carpet, appliances and non‑wood construction debris remain prohibited.
All burns must take place during daylight hours, and a responsible adult must remain on‑site at all times. Officials advise keeping a hose, bucket of water or fire extinguisher nearby, and calling 911 immediately if a fire gets out of control. Residents should also contact their local fire department first and obtain any required permits, as outlined in the release.
City limits still have separate rules
Within the incorporated cities of the county, local ordinances continue to apply:
- Austin: Open burning, including trash, tree limbs and leaves, is prohibited year‑round. The Austin Fire Department only issues permits for prescribed burns, which are planned fires used for land management.
- Bee Cave and Lakeway: Lake Travis Fire Rescue requires a permit for any fire larger than 3 by 2 feet in Lakeway. In Bee Cave, brush may be burned only as a controlled burn with a permit from the city.
- Pflugerville: The Pflugerville Fire Department requires a permit for all outdoor burning, even when no county ban is in effect. Permits can be applied for online and activated by phone or text.
How the ban works under state law
Texas law authorizes the Travis County Commissioners Court to impose an outdoor‑burning ban in unincorporated areas when conditions create a wildfire risk. The court may also direct the fire marshal to lift the ban once conditions improve, which is what occurred on Nov. 3.
Burn bans are a routine tool in Travis County. In 2026 alone, the county has imposed bans for parts of eight months and lifted them on Jan. 26, Apr. 7 and now in early November. The January lift ended a ban that began in late December.
Staying informed
Residents can check the current burn‑ban status on the Travis County Fire Marshal’s website or text TCBURNBAN to 888‑777 for alerts. The office also provides assistance in locating the appropriate fire department for permit questions at 512‑854‑4621.
While the lift reflects improved weather, officials stress that outdoor burning still carries risk. Following safety guidelines helps protect families, neighbors and the natural beauty of Central Texas.
Original reporting: Community Impact — Austin — read the source article.
