Outdoor Burning: Arlington vs Fort Worth
How do outdoor burning rules compare between Arlington, TX and Fort Worth, TX?
Arlington and Fort Worth have similar restriction levels.
Arlington, TX
Tarrant County
Arlington bans most outdoor burning within city limits. Authorized burns require a $1,000 permit and Fire Prevention inspection. Wind speed must be 5–16 mph, relative humidity above 35%, and burning during daylight only. No burning on ozone alert days.
View full Arlington rules →Fort Worth, TX
Tarrant County
Fort Worth Code Chapter 13 adopts the 2021 International Fire Code, which generally prohibits open burning of refuse and yard waste inside city limits. The Fire Marshal may also impose temporary burn bans during drought.
View full Fort Worth rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Arlington | Fort Worth |
|---|---|---|
| Permit Fee | $1,000 for authorized burns | - |
| Wind Speed | 5–16 mph required | - |
| Humidity | Above 35% required | - |
| Ozone Days | No burning allowed | - |
| Gas/Propane Pits | Generally exempt | - |
| Code Reference | - | Fort Worth Code Ch. 13 (adopts 2021 IFC) |
| Trench Burn Setback | - | 300 ft from structures and property lines |
| Firebreak | - | 50 ft from vegetation |
| County Burn Bans | - | Tarrant County declarations apply citywide |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Arlington FAQ
Can I burn yard waste in my backyard in Arlington?
Arlington bans most outdoor burning within city limits. Authorized burns require a $1,000 permit and Fire Prevention inspection. Wind speed must be 5–16 mph, relative humidity above 35%, and burning during daylight only. No burning on ozone alert days.
Do I need a permit for outdoor burning in Arlington?
Permit Fee: $1,000 for authorized burns. Wind Speed: 5–16 mph required. Humidity: Above 35% required. Ozone Days: No burning allowed.
Fort Worth FAQ
Can I burn leaves in my Fort Worth backyard?
No. Burning yard waste and refuse is prohibited inside the city under Chapter 13 and the adopted 2021 IFC. Only approved recreational fires and small cooking fires are allowed.
How do I find out if there's a burn ban?
Burn bans are declared by Tarrant County and announced by the Fort Worth Fire Marshal. During a declared ban, all otherwise-permitted outdoor fires are suspended.
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