Harris County Commissioners Court enacted a burn ban due to an increased threat of wildfires across unincorporated Harris County. Here's what that means:

• No outdoor burning is allowed except in an enclosure which contains all flames and/or sparks, outdoor burning activities authorized by TCEQ, approved ceremonial fires, non-commercial cooking, such as backyard cook-outs barbeques are also allowed in approved containers, as is welding and other “hot work” performed in accordance with county fire code requirements.
• Burning in violation of the court order is a Class “C” misdemeanor, punishable for up to a $500 fine. Any peace officer can issue a citation for violation of Section 352.081 of the Local Government Code. You are responsible for any damage caused by a fire you start.
• Use extreme caution when cooking outdoors. A small spark or burning ember can ignite dry vegetation. Winds will fan the flames and spread the fire rapidly.
• Remove combustibles within 30 feet of any controlled fire or hot work. A small, controlled fire can easily spread quickly and become an out-of-control, dangerous fire.
• If you see an unattended fire, call 9-1-1 and notify your local fire department immediately. Even a small fire can spread quickly and threaten people and property.
• This burn ban will not impact the sale of fireworks this Fourth of July season

For more information, click here.