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Wilson County extends burn ban for 90 days amid high dryness indicators
Summary
After reports of elevated fire danger and recent large fires, the county extended its burn ban for another 90 days; staff reported 38 burn-related calls over the prior 90 days and seven citations issued.
Wilson County Commissioners voted Nov. 25 to extend the county's burn ban for another 90 days following presentations from Emergency Management Coordinator Cindy Stafford and local fire officials.
Stafford told the court the county's KDBI (dryness index) was approximately 6.68 and that neighboring counties vary in burn-ban status; she reported 38 calls for burn-ban violations over the prior 90 days with seven citations issued and approximately 12 illegal burn calls. Stafford explained the county's permit process for agricultural burns and noted the primary exemption under Local Government Code 352.081 is for planting and harvesting agricultural crops. Fire chiefs and the sheriff described recent large fires (including an Arrowhead blaze) and supported continued restrictions.
Commissioner King moved to extend the burn ban for 90 days under county rules; Commissioner Aiken seconded and the court approved the extension by voice vote. Stafford also asked if commissioners wanted the item on a future agenda to consider a fireworks ban for New Year's, and the judge indicated that would need to be placed on an upcoming agenda.
The court did not adopt a separate fireworks ban at this meeting. Stafford reminded commissioners that approved agricultural burns still require 48-hour notice and local fire-chief approval.
