Today, July 13, Denton County has declared a state of disaster and issued a mandatory burn ban due to the potential threat of wildfires. While the ban is in effect, burning or use of a combustible material outdoors is prohibited. All outdoor cooking or open flame devices are prohibited with the exception of propane and natural gas devices that are fully enclosed or wood and charcoal cooking devices that are fully enclosed and clear of vegetation or debris for a five foot radius. There are also additional regulations placed on open and enclosed hotwork (welding, grinding, and cutting torch operations), which can be found here: https://bit.ly/3nXqFin.
Ignoring this mandatory burn ban is a Class C Misdemeanor punishable by a fine of up to $500. The burn ban will remain in place until the state of disaster is terminated by Denton County.
Additionally, the National Weather Service has issued a heat advisory for our area today, and the Electric Reliability Council of Texas has issued a conservation appeal for 2-9 p.m. today. For more information on the ERCOT conservation appeal, visit https://bit.ly/3RyyQPG. For tips on staying safe during excessive heat, visit https://bit.ly/3axlkLL.