Hardin County court declines countywide outdoor burn ban, cites forecast and public education

Hardin County's Commissioners Court on March 31, 2026, decided not to declare a countywide outdoor burn ban after fire chiefs and the county emergency management coordinator reported current fire-potential indicators were low to moderate and rain was forecast.

The County Judge opened discussion of Item 2, noting the court could either issue a disaster declaration restricting outdoor burning or continue a declaration prompted by conditions in a neighboring county; the judge said Item 2B (continuation from Martin County) did not apply because the county has not previously issued a burn ban. He told the court he had reviewed Texas A&M Forest Service fuel and fire-potential data showing today’s one-hour fuels as moderate and other fuel classes lower, and that National Weather Service forecasts called for one to two inches of rain in the area over the coming days.

Two local fire chiefs advised caution but did not recommend an immediate ban. "Hardy County supports the same as ESD6 with [the] current forecast," Chief Thomas said, urging continued public education and prudent burning practices rather than a short-term ban. Eric, the county emergency management coordinator, said he reviewed forestry-service indicators and concurred that the short-term fire potential does not justify a countywide ban now.

A resident, Miss Bean, recounted recent near-misses from neighborhood burnings and urged stricter controls: "It doesn't take long for a fire to ignite ... it would have been destructive for him and his family and this community," she said, describing a recent blaze that nearly consumed a local business. The County Judge emphasized that he can issue a seven-day burn ban if conditions worsen and that any extension beyond a judge-issued seven-day order would require further court action. He also explained that short, intermittent bans can confuse the public and that public service announcements (PSAs) are being used to alert residents when conditions are dangerous.

After discussion, the court took no action on Item 2A or 2B; the County Judge said he remained prepared to issue a seven-day ban later if the fire potential increases.

The court did not record a formal motion or vote on a ban; the decision was to leave current rules in place and continue monitoring conditions. The county’s emergency-management and fire officials said they will continue public outreach and monitoring and share PSAs to inform residents about safe burning practices.