Community Corner

Burn Ban Implemented At All Austin Parks

High temperatures and a lack of rainfall have combined to create a need for a ban on burning at all parks, greenbelts and preserves.

AUSTIN, TX — High temperatures and a lack of rainfall have prompted city officials to implement a burn ban at the city's parks and recreation areas.

The prohibition covers all city parks, greenbelts and preserves effective immediately and until further notice, city officials announced on Wednesday. The ban includes the use of wood or charcoal BBQ pits/grills/smokers. Propane stoves are allowed in designated picnic areas only. City officials remind that smoking is always prohibited in city parks.

City park police and rangers will be poised to enforce the ban, with violators subject to fines ranging from $300 to $500.

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"The burn ban helps ensure the safety of park patrons and surrounding communities, while minimizing the wildfire risk in the city’s parks and greenbelts," city officials wrote in an advisory. "The Department will continue to evaluate fire conditions and will lift the ban as soon as it is safe to do so; a media advisory will be distributed at that time."

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