Neighboring County Institutes Burn Ban

October 15, 2024 – Hopkins County has yet to issue a burn ban this fall, but our neighboring county to the east issued one this week. Residents of Franklin County are now prohibited from outdoor burning.

In Texas, local governments are empowered to take action on the behalf of those they serve. When drought conditions exist, a burn ban can be put in place by a county judge or county commissioners court prohibiting or restricting outdoor burning for public safety.

A burn ban means no outdoor burning is allowed, except in an enclosure that contains all flames and/or sparks. Non-commercial cooking, such as backyard cookouts and barbeques, are still allowed. Any outdoor welding and/or other “hot work” must be performed in accordance with fire code requirements.

As of this posting, there is no significant precipitation in the 10 day forecast.