Denton County Judge Andy Eads issued a Local Disaster Declaration for Threat of Wildland Fires Due to Dry Conditions in Denton County, putting a mandatory burn ban in effect countywide beginning August 25, 2026.
Denton County is now the 178th of 254 Texas counties with a burn ban in effect. County officials cited high temperatures, high winds, low humidity and dead or dormant vegetation as factors increasing the risk of large and destructive wildfires.
The county is experiencing dry weather with little to no relief anticipated in the near future and is currently classified as being in moderate drought conditions, according to the U.S. Drought Monitor Map. Denton County has also seen a slight increase in the frequency of wildfires.
Burn ban details
- Effective date: August 25, 2026
- Area: Denton County
- Restrictions: All outdoor burning is prohibited. The burn ban also includes restrictions on outdoor hot work, including welding and cutting torch operations, and the use of certain combustible materials.
- Penalty: Violation of the county judge executive-ordered burn ban is a class C misdemeanor punishable by a fine not to exceed $500.
- Duration: The burn ban will continue until drought conditions are alleviated.
“Prevention of potential wildland fires is essential to the safety of county residents. Wildfires can be devastating and difficult on everyone, especially farmers and ranchers; wildfires can destroy not only lives and property, but livelihoods as well,” Judge Eads said. “With everyone’s help we can make our communities a safer place to live and enjoy life.”
Denton County Chief Fire Marshal Brad Sebastian urged residents to reduce fire hazards around their homes and be ready to respond if a small fire starts.
“Residents should take measures to protect their home by removing unwanted combustible debris and vegetation away from their homes and be sure to keep water hoses ready and accessible in the event a small fire starts,” Sebastian said. “Always call 911 early to notify your fire department of any fire to assure a faster response and that complete extinguishment has occurred.”
The county’s order asks residents to cooperate with outdoor burning restrictions as dry conditions continue and wildfire risk remains elevated.
Source: Denton County Public Notices