Order prohibiting outdoor burning took effect Aug. 25 and may remain in place for up to 90 days
ROCKWALL COUNTY, Texas — The Rockwall County Commissioners Court has implemented a burn ban for the unincorporated areas of Rockwall County after determining that current conditions create a public safety hazard that could be worsened by outdoor burning.
The order, adopted Aug. 25, 2026, prohibits outdoor burning in unincorporated areas of the county, except for activities authorized or exempted under Texas law. The order took effect immediately and may remain in place for up to 90 days unless it is terminated, rescinded or modified earlier by the Commissioners Court.
Under the order, certain authorized activities are not prohibited, including qualifying burns related to public health and safety, firefighter training, public utility operations, natural gas pipeline operations, mining operations, and the planting or harvesting of agricultural crops. Those activities must comply with applicable Texas Commission on Environmental Quality requirements.
Prescribed burns conducted by certified and insured prescribed burn managers who meet applicable state standards are also permitted.
The order provides for fire departments to respond to reports of suspected violations. When appropriate, a commissioned peace officer may also be asked to investigate. Knowingly or intentionally violating the burn prohibition constitutes a criminal offense under Texas law.
The ban applies only to the unincorporated areas of Rockwall County. The Commissioners Court may end the order before the 90-day limit if officials determine that the public safety conditions that prompted the ban have abated. The Court may also adopt a subsequent burn-ban order when the current one expires.
The order was signed by Rockwall County Judge Frank New and attested by Rockwall County Clerk Jennifer Fogg on Aug. 25, 2026.
Submitted by: Jim Barto, Rockwall County Public Information
