Brush Clearance: Denton vs Little Elm
How do brush clearance rules compare between Denton, TX and Little Elm, TX?
Denton and Little Elm have similar restriction levels.
Denton, TX
Denton County
Denton Code Sec. 17-40 (Ch. 17 Property Maintenance) requires property owners to maintain vegetation and remove brush, dead trees, and combustible debris. Open burning of brush is prohibited within city limits under Ch. 29. The city offers curbside brush collection as an alternative. During county burn bans, all outdoor burning in Denton County is prohibited.
View full Denton rules →Little Elm, TX
Denton County
Little Elm requires an annual burn permit ($25) from the Fire Department for any outdoor burning including brush and vegetation clearing. Open burning for land clearing must maintain 300-foot clearance from any structure. Burning is only allowed on designated burn days set by the Denton County Fire Marshal. All open burns must be constantly attended and must comply with TCEQ outdoor burning regulations.
View full Little Elm rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Denton | Little Elm |
|---|---|---|
| Code | Sec. 17-40 (Ch. 17) | - |
| Open Burning | Prohibited within city (Ch. 29) | - |
| Brush Pickup | Curbside collection -- bundle 4 ft | - |
| Reuse Center | 1527 S. Mayhill Rd (accepts yard waste) | - |
| Enforcement | Community Improvement Services | - |
| Burn Permit Fee | - | $25/year |
| Structure Clearance | - | 300 ft minimum |
| Burn Days | - | Designated by Denton County |
| Attendance | - | Constantly attended |
| TCEQ Compliance | - | Required |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Denton FAQ
Can I burn brush in my yard in Denton?
No. Open burning is prohibited within Denton city limits under Ch. 29 Fire Code. Use the curbside brush collection service -- bundle branches in 4-foot lengths for pickup. The Denton Reuse Center at 1527 S. Mayhill Rd also accepts yard waste.
What happens if I do not clear brush from my vacant lot?
Community Improvement Services will issue a written notice with a compliance deadline. If you fail to comply, the city may clear the lot and assess the costs to the property owner, plus fines up to $500.
Little Elm FAQ
Can I burn brush on my property in Little Elm?
Only with a current burn permit ($25/year) from the Fire Department, on designated burn days, and at least 300 feet from any structure. TCEQ guidelines must be followed.
How do I check if today is a burn day?
Contact the Little Elm Fire Marshal's Office at fmo@littleelm.gov or (214) 975-0417. Burn day status is determined by the Denton County Fire Marshal's Office based on weather and fire conditions.
Who can apply for a burn permit?
Only property owners may apply. Register on the MyGov Permitting Portal, select annual burn permit under business license, and complete the required fields.
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