Union County enacts countywide burn ban as fire danger rises

Union County commissioners voted July 15 to institute a countywide burn ban after Emergency Manager Nick Vora told the board that energy release components — a cumulative measure of moisture and fuels — are above average and projected to climb. The Fire Defense Board unanimously recommended the ban under Ordinance 2024-02, which would prohibit open burning outside city limits except for pellet and charcoal barbeques.

"It is above average and projected to go significantly above average," Emergency Manager Nick Vora said in the briefing explaining the recommendation. Commissioner Jake Seavert moved to enter the countywide burn ban on the Fire Defense Board's recommendation; Commissioner Paul Anderes seconded and the motion carried. Commissioners discussed clarifying language about propane and whether a special meeting should be held sooner than the next regular meeting to finalize timing; Vora said the Fire Chiefs recommended acting sooner rather than later.

The ban, as described by staff, would disallow campfires, burn barrels and open burning outside city limits while permitting pellet and charcoal grills. The board did not set a specific sunset date during the meeting; officials said they will monitor field conditions and may revisit the ban as conditions change. The commission's next regular meeting is scheduled for Aug. 5, 2026.