Disaster Declaration issued due to ongoing wildfires threat

Due to the continuing threat of wildfires caused by extreme drought conditions in Tarrant County’s unincorporated areas, Tarrant County Judge Tim O’Hare on Wednesday issued an additional Disaster Declaration for Tarrant County for the next seven days.

High temperatures are expected to exceed 100 degrees for the remainder of the week. The extreme heat, combined with low humidity and gusty winds, have created the need to take extraordinary measures to protect the lives and properties of the residents of the unincorporated areas of Tarrant County.

This declaration prohibits general outside burning in the unincorporated areas of Tarrant County.  Outdoor cooking, welding and the use of firepits for social gatherings are not prohibited. A violation of the Disaster Declaration is a Class C Misdemeanor and punishable by a fine up to $500.

During this Declaration there will be no authorized controlled burning without the approval of the Tarrant County Fire Marshal’s Office, excluding cooking, welding and the use of firepits as described above.

For information on Outdoor Cooking and Welding Guidelines, go to www.tarrantcountytx.gov/burnban

The Tarrant County Fire Marshal’s Office urges all residents of Tarrant County to help us during this time and be aware of the conditions around you at all times.

The Fire Marshal’s Office strongly suggests that you keep a 30-foot perimeter mowed around your home and outbuildings to prevent a fire from reaching your structures.

Please help us keep Tarrant County safe.

Randy Renois

Fire Marshal