Why Outdoor Burning is Regulated

Outdoor burning is regulated to protect the environment, promote public health and safety, and prevent wildfires. Both state law and local ordinances apply, and the fire department is required to enforce these rules when responding to outdoor burns.

We understand that outdoor burning is often necessary for property maintenance. Our goal is to help you burn safely, legally, and efficiently.

State Rules (Texas Administrative Code)

Outdoor burning in Texas is governed by 30 TAC §§ 111.201–111.221.

Key Points:

• Burning must not cause a public nuisance, impact air quality, or create unsafe conditions.

• Additional restrictions can be put in place during burn bans or periods of extreme fire danger.

Read the Texas Administrative Code

Local Rules

In the City of Lumberton:

Outdoor burning is permitted on private property in residentially zoned area under City Ordinance Sec. 18-20, with these conditions:

(1)The burning must be a prescribed burn, as defined in this article.

(2)The burning must be on-site burning of brush, grass, leaves, branch trimmings or other plant growth by the owner of the property or other person authorized by the owner, and the material is generated only from that property.

(3)The burn shall commence no earlier than one hour after sunrise and be extinguished one hour before sunset.

(4)The burn shall be a single burn pile in no larger than 60 inches in diameter and 36 inches in height at any time.

(5)The burn shall be attended by a responsible person at all times.

(6)Water must be available at the burn area at all times.

(7)The burn shall be extinguished if the smoke from the fire becomes a nuisance or safety hazard to any person.

(8)The burn shall be extinguished when so ordered by a fire, police or environmental quality official.

(9)A burn shall not be commenced when wind or any other condition create an unsafe environment.

Read the Lumberton Code of Ordinances

In Hardin County (Outside Lumberton City Limits):

• For all areas within the HCESD#2 district but outside of Lumberton city limits, the Texas Administrative Code applies.