Order Restricting Outdoor Burning

Bell County Order Restricting Outdoor Burning

September 22, 2008 (Bell County, Texas) - The Bell County Commissioners Court adopted an Order Restricting Outdoor Burning in the unincorporated area of Bell County for THIRTY (30) DAYS, unless the restrictions are terminated earlier based on a determination made by the Commissioners Court that the circumstances creating a public safety hazard no longer exist. The County Judge is authorized to administratively lift the burn ban for up to SEVENTY-TWO (72) HOURS upon his determination that circumstances warrant such action.

This Order is adopted pursuant to Local Government Code § 352.081 and other applicable statutes. This Order does not prohibit outdoor burning activities related to public health and safety that are authorized by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (formerly the Texas Natural Resource Conservation Commission) for (1) firefighter training; (2) public utility, natural gas pipeline, or mining operations; (3) planting or harvesting of agriculture crops; or, (4) burns that are conducted by a prescribed burn manager certified under Section 153.048, Natural Resources Code, and meet the standards of Section 153.047, Natural Resources Code.

In accordance with Local Government Code § 352.081(h), a violation of this Order is a Class C misdemeanor, punishable by a fine not to exceed $500.00.