The Medina County Commissioners Court adopted a burn ban on Monday, July 10. The order went into effect immediately and prohibits all outdoor burning in unincorporated areas of the County for 90 days.
Violating the burn ban is a Class C misdemeanor, punishable by a fine up to $500 for each infraction.
Exceptions exist for firefighter training; public utility, natural gas pipeline, or mining operations; the harvesting of agricultural crops; burns that are conducted by a prescribed burn manager; or ceremonial fires, provided that advance notice is given to the Medina County Sheriff and fire officials.
Another exception is provided for landowners and Land Clearing Contractors or employees who obtain a notice of exception from the County Fire Marshal, provide time and location of the burning in advance to the Medina County Sheriff, and remain present during the burning with appropriate fire containment equipment.
Commissioners Court can rescind the burn ban prior to 90 days if the County Judge or County Fire Marshal determines conditions are safe to do so.
Atascosa County’s burn ban went into effect June 29.
By Marly Davis
Staff Writer