Polk County Under Burn Ban Effective Immediately

Polk County is now officially under a burn ban following emergency action by the Polk County Commissioners Court.

According to the signed order filed February 24, 2026, outdoor burning is prohibited in the unincorporated areas of Polk County due to dry conditions that create a public safety hazard and increase the risk of wildfire.

The burn ban went into effect at 10:00 a.m. on February 24, 2026 and will remain in place for 30 days, unless lifted earlier by the Commissioners Court.

What Is Prohibited

Under the order, residents may not ignite, cause to ignite, or allow ignition of any combustible or vegetative material outdoors. Burning inside an enclosure is also prohibited unless properly supervised and sufficiently covered to prevent sparks or wind-blown debris.

Violating the burn ban is a Class C misdemeanor, punishable by a fine of up to $500.

Fire departments responding to suspected violations may request a peace officer to investigate. Citations may be issued for violations of the burn ban order.

Exceptions

The burn ban does not apply to:

• Welding-related burning that is accidental and not malicious

• Certain activities authorized by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ), including firefighting training, public utility operations, agricultural planting/harvesting, and certified prescribed burns

• Food cooking using enclosed, above-ground grills in a safe area clear of debris

• Air Curtain Incinerators operating under proper TCEQ permit and notification to the Polk County Fire Marshal

County officials state the purpose of the order is to reduce wildfire risk during the current dry weather conditions.

Residents are encouraged to use extreme caution and report any signs of wildfire immediately.