Disaster Declaration Lifted

MONTGOMERY COUNTY, TX -- Recent rainfall has reduced our wildfire risk and the Disaster Declaration has been lifted.

What can I burn?

Outdoor Burning is generally prohibited year round unless it meets one of the exceptions found in State Law. Commercial Businesses may not burn at any time. Land Clearing operations must comply with State Air Quality regulations and utilize an Air Curtain Incinerator permitted through the Texas Commission on Environment Quality.

Fire Departments and the Fire Marshal’s Office cannot and will not give permission to burn. It is the responsibility of the person burning to first ascertain if there are any restrictions and only burn if it is safe to do so.

Residential Burning FAQs:

1. Can I burn my trash or household refuse in Montgomery County?
Answer: NO - Residents may not burn trash or household refuse in subdivisions, within 300 ft. of subdivisions, or on less than 5 acres of land.
Texas Local Government Code 352.082 – passed by the Legislature in 2005

2. Can I burn limbs and leaves that I gather at my residence?
Answer: Maybe - Most Cities and Townships have ordinances or covenants that restrict or prohibit outdoor burning. Depending on the neighborhood, there may also be local restrictions. If there are no restrictions, then the burning of limbs and leaves would be allowed under current State Law as long as the burning does not create a nuisance to neighboring residents. The material must be generated from the property where it is burned.

Outdoor burning contributes to air pollution and increases the risk of wildfire during periods of prolonged drought. More information on outdoor burning can be found under the Outdoor Burning tab on our website at www.mctx.org/fire