A burn ban is in effect immediately for Liberty County, according to County Judge Jay Knight. Drought conditions that exist in the county made the burn ban necessary for the protection of homes and properties.
All outdoor burning is prohibited for the next 60 days from the date of the order, Aug. 20, unless restrictions are terminated earlier based on a determination by the Texas Forest Service or by the county judge.
The signed order states that it does not prohibit outdoor activities such as:
- related to public health and safety that are authorized by the Texas Natural Resources Commission for firefighter training; public utility, natural gas pipeline or mining operations; or planting and harvesting of agriculture crops; or
- 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.
Anyone in violation of the order could be charged with a Class C misdemeanor, punishable by a fine not to exceed $500.