WilCo Declares Disaster Area Amid Heat, Bans Outdoor Fires

WILLIAMSON COUNTY, TX — The Williamson County judge declared a local disaster declaration amid the scorching heat, banning all outdoor burning in unincorporated areas to avert possible wildfires, officials said Friday.

The order also prohibits smoking in and/or on Williamson County parks, preserves, and trails. The order was scheduled to go into effect at 5 p.m. Friday (Aug. 21), and continues for seven days unless extended by the consent of the Williamson County Commissioners Court, officials said in an advisory.

Violators are those residents who burn any combustible material outside of an enclosure which serves to contain all flames and/or sparks, or orders such burning by others, officials explained. The burn ban prohibits the burning of household yard waste, such as leaves, grass, brush and other yard trimmings. It also prohibits burning to clear land of trees, stumps, shrubbery, or other natural vegetation. Moreover, a person also violates the order if they engage in any activity outdoors which could allow flames or sparks that could results in a fire unless done in an enclosure designed to protect the spread of fire, or orders such activities by others.

This order may be enforced by any duly-commissioned peace officer, officials added. Violators are subject to a fine up to $1,000 and jail term of up to 180 days.