Travis County imposes 30-day burn ban in northwest county after Sandy Creek flooding

Travis County officials on Tuesday approved a 30-day burn ban for northwest parts of the county covering Big Sandy Creek, Cow Creek and adjacent low-lying streams and creeks, a measure the county said is intended to support ongoing rescue and recovery operations after a severe flash-flooding event.

"I'm recommending putting a burn ban in order for Northwest Travis County along, Big Sandy Creek, Cow Creek, and any low lying areas, streams or creeks in that area," Travis County Fire Marshal Gary Howell told the commissioners. The court voted unanimously to adopt the ban and said it will revisit the order at its Aug. 5 session; the ban can be lifted earlier if conditions allow.

County public information director Hector Nieto said the county will notify residents through multiple channels. "Anytime we send out anytime we get a burn ban from the fire marshal's office, we will send out a press release to our partners in the press," Nieto said, adding that the county will also post on social media, make staff available for media interviews and use on-the-ground partners to reach residents who may not receive digital alerts.

Commissioners asked staff to coordinate with local volunteer fire departments and the emergency-service districts active in the impacted corridor so field responders can inform residents about the ban when they encounter residents during rescue and recovery operations. Officials said enforcement and outreach will be coordinated with ESDs working in the area.

Why it matters: The ban is a short-term public-safety step tied to an ongoing rescue and recovery operation after flash flooding in the Lago Vista/Jonestown corridor damaged roads and homes. County officials framed the burn ban as a precaution to reduce additional fire or safety risks while responders are active in the area.

What happens next: County staff said they will post guidance about the ban and outreach plans; the court may revisit the order on Aug. 5 or lift it earlier if conditions change.