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Johnson County adopts temporary burn ban as winds, low humidity raise grass-fire risk
Summary
Commissioners unanimously approved an emergency countywide burn ban beginning 8 a.m. Friday amid forecasts of high winds and low humidity and limited firefighting resources.
Johnson County Commissioners Court voted unanimously to adopt a temporary countywide prohibition on outdoor burning, starting at 8 a.m. on Friday, March 14, 2025.
Fire Marshal Marshall Moore briefed the court and recommended the burn ban after reviewing recent wind damage, forecasted low humidities in the teens, anticipated sustained high winds and the limited availability of state firefighting resources. Moore said the state’s preparedness level was at level 3, leaving fewer aircraft and engines available to respond to new fires.
“I would recommend that we go into fire restrictions starting 8AM on Friday morning,” Moore told the court during his presentation.
The court’s motion to adopt the restriction was made by Commissioner Woolley and seconded by Commissioner Bailey. The motion carried unanimously.
Court members discussed whether activities such as welding should be considered prohibited during the burn ban; commissioners said they would seek clarification about welding exceptions for critical infrastructure or gas-pipeline work. The court asked Marshall Moore to stay in contact with the judge’s office so restrictions could be rescinded or adjusted as conditions change.
The order adopted by the court applies to outdoor burning consistent with the county’s model prohibition; the court did not change the text of state-authorized exceptions during the meeting but discussed enforcement and public notification. Moore and court staff said they would use social media and other channels to notify residents.
