A burn ban has been issued for Orange County, effective immediately. Orange County Judge John Gothia gave the order on Thursday morning, October 10, 2024, and will remain in place until further notice. The ban prohibits all outdoor burning, citing the increasing drought conditions in the area.
Judge Gothia emphasized that the burn ban is necessary to “protect the lives and properties” of Orange County residents. Local officials will continue to monitor the situation closely, and updates will be provided as conditions evolve.
It is illegal to leave any fire unattended in Texas, and local governments have the authority to enforce burn bans under the Texas Forest Service’s guidance. County judges or commissioners courts are empowered to implement burn bans when drought conditions pose a threat to public safety. Violating a burn ban is classified as a Class C misdemeanor, which can result in fines of up to $500 and possible community service.
Ryan Burns, public information officer for the Texas A&M Forest Service, noted the importance of public awareness during these times. “When we respond to wildfires, it’s often due to debris burning, and many residents say, ‘I didn’t know there was a burn ban,’” Burns explained. “A part of our mission is to ensure the public is aware of weather conditions and burn restrictions.”
Orange County officials urge residents to comply with the ban to prevent the outbreak of wildfires during this period of elevated fire risk. Residents can follow updates on the burn ban through county communications and media outlets.
