Williamson County Lifts Burn Ban As Rain Falls Upon Region

WILLIAMSON COUNTY, TX — A burn ban that had been implemented two weeks ago in Williamson County was lifted on Wednesday amid copious rainfall amounts descended to the region, effectively ending drought-like conditions.

Williamson County Judge Bill Gravell lifted the burn ban for unincorporated areas of Williamson County effective at 2:30 p.m. on Wednesday, thus terminating the outdoor burning ban prior to its 90-day expiration period.

The burn ban was issued Dec. 15 as a result of circumstances that posed possible safety hazards in unincorporated areas in the county. The Williamson County Fire Marshal and Office of Emergency Management recommended lifting the ban as a result of improved conditions, according to an advisory.

Despite the burn ban's lifting, county officials urged residents are urged to be cautious with any outdoor burning activity. Outdoor burning must be conducted under state regulations found in Texas Administrative Code Section 30 TAC 111.219. Prior to conducting control burns, residents should follow this guidance:

• Contact your local fire department as some fire departments may require a burn permit.
• Contact Williamson County Communications at (512) 864-8282, then hit option 1 twice. Williamson County Communications will then inform residents of any burning restrictions that may exist.