Outdoor Burning: Dallas vs Fort Worth
How do outdoor burning rules compare between Dallas, TX and Fort Worth, TX?
Dallas and Fort Worth have similar restriction levels.
Dallas, TX
Dallas County
Open burning in Dallas requires a permit from the fire code official under Chapter 16 of the Dallas Fire Code. Open burning that is offensive due to smoke or hazardous due to atmospheric conditions is prohibited.
View full Dallas 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 | Dallas | Fort Worth |
|---|---|---|
| Permit | Required from fire code official | - |
| Code Section | Chapter 16 (Fire Code) | - |
| State Regulation | TCEQ 30 TAC Ch. 111 | - |
| Max Fine | Up to $2,000 | - |
| 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.
Dallas FAQ
Can I do outdoor burning in Dallas?
Open burning requires a permit from the fire code official. Burning that produces offensive smoke or is hazardous is prohibited.
Can I burn yard waste in Dallas?
Open burning of yard waste requires a permit. TCEQ outdoor burning rules also apply. Burning garbage or prohibited materials is not 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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