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Hays County Issues Burn Ban


The Hays County Commissioners Court on Tuesday issued a countywide burn ban effective immediately.

The ban exempts charcoal and gas grills, but burning in “burn barrels” (even ones with screens on the top) is not allowed.

"If you are grilling outdoors, please use extreme caution," Mark Chambers, Hays County Fire Marshal said. "Make sure you have a water source nearby to douse escaping sparks and never leave your grill unattended. Place the grill away from anything else that could catch fire, including your house, and don't dispose of coals until you are certain they are cold."

The Court also banned the sale and use of fireworks with sticks and fins due to the potential fire hazard they present.

Chambers also cautioned residents to avoid parking vehicles on grassy areas since automobile catalytic converters can start fires along the road, and to refrain from tossing cigarettes outside as well -- even ones that appear to be out can still be a fire hazard.

Violators of the burn ban and fireworks violators could face a class C misdemeanor charge with a fine up to $500.