Outdoor burning is banned across unincorporated Galveston County, and League City residents living outside city limits face fines up to $500 if they violate the order.
Galveston County Commissioners Court approved the burn ban at a special meeting Aug. 17. The ban prohibits burning trash, brush, vegetation and debris in all unincorporated parts of the county, according to the Galveston County Office of Emergency Management.
The order does not automatically apply inside League City's boundaries. Residents should contact the League City Fire Department for rules that apply within city limits.
Galveston County is one of 216 Texas counties under active burn bans, KHOU reported Sept. 17. Neighboring Fort Bend, Brazoria and Waller counties are also under bans. Harris County's ban also took effect Sept. 17.
Drought conditions prompted the order. The county's emergency management office warned that dry conditions could allow a single spark to quickly start a fire.
"While a burn ban is in place, take all necessary precautions to help stop the possibility of out-of-control fires," County Judge Mark Henry said on social media Aug. 23.
What the ban means
No end date has been set.
Under Texas Local Government Code §352.081, a county burn ban can last up to 90 days. Commissioners can lift it early after significant rainfall or renew it if drought persists.
Violating a burn ban is a Class C misdemeanor under Texas law, carrying a fine of up to $500. A person who sets a fire that escapes can also face civil liability for damages.
County officials also urged residents to avoid any activity that could produce sparks or ignite dry vegetation.
How to stay safe
County officials recommend several steps during the ban: mow grass to about 2 inches, store fuel and flammable materials safely, clear dead plants and leaves, water yards and shrubs, and trim tree branches from the ground up to 6 feet.
Residents can reach the Galveston County Office of Emergency Management at (281) 309-5002 or visit gcoem.org for updates on when the ban may be lifted.
