Outdoor Burning: Denton vs Little Elm
How do outdoor burning rules compare between Denton, TX and Little Elm, TX?
Little Elm has fewer restrictions than Denton.
Denton, TX
Denton County
Denton Ch. 29 (Ord. 22-663, 2021 IFC) prohibits open burning within city limits. IFC 307.4 requires 300-ft setback. Curbside yard waste pickup offered instead.
View full Denton rules →Little Elm, TX
Denton County
Little Elm requires a $25 annual burn permit from the Fire Department via the MyGov portal before any outdoor burning. Denton County burn bans override town permits during drought.
View full Little Elm rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Denton | Little Elm |
|---|---|---|
| Code | Ch. 29 (Ord. 22-663, 2021 IFC) | Ch. 50 Fire Prevention |
| Open Burning | Prohibited within city limits | - |
| Setback | 300 ft from structures (IFC 307.4) | - |
| Alternative | Curbside yard waste pickup | - |
| Contact | Fire Prevention (940) 349-8600 | Fire Marshal (214) 975-0417 |
| Permit Fee | - | $25/year via MyGov portal |
| State Rule | - | TCEQ 30 TAC 111.209 |
| County Burn Bans | - | Override town permits |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Denton FAQ
Can I burn leaves or brush on my property in Denton?
No. Open burning is prohibited within Denton city limits. The city provides curbside yard waste collection as an alternative.
Does the county allow burning outside city limits?
Unincorporated Denton County has separate rules under the County Fire Marshal. Recreational and agricultural burns may be allowed with approval and when no county burn ban is in effect.
Little Elm FAQ
How do I get a burn permit in Little Elm?
Apply through the MyGov Permitting Portal, pay the $25 fee, and email fmo@littleelm.gov to finalize. Check Denton County burn ban status before burning.
Can I burn yard waste in Little Elm?
Only with a valid annual burn permit from the Fire Department. Trash, construction debris, and treated wood cannot be burned under any circumstances.
What happens during a Denton County burn ban?
All outdoor burning is prohibited regardless of your town permit status. Check the Denton County Fire Marshal website before any planned burn.
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