Outdoor Burning: Flower Mound vs Little Elm
How do outdoor burning rules compare between Flower Mound, TX and Little Elm, TX?
Little Elm has fewer restrictions than Flower Mound.
Flower Mound, TX
Denton County
Flower Mound Ch. 38 Fire Prevention and Protection prohibits open burning within town limits under the adopted 2024 International Fire Code. Trench burns are not allowed anywhere in the town. Incinerator fires require a minimum two-acre lot and a 20-foot setback from structures, with a spark arrestor in place at all times.
View full Flower Mound 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 | Flower Mound | Little Elm |
|---|---|---|
| Code | Ch. 38 Fire Prevention and Protection | Ch. 50 Fire Prevention |
| Open Burning | Prohibited in town limits | - |
| Trench Burns | Not allowed anywhere in town | - |
| Incinerator Setback | 20 ft from structures, 2-acre minimum lot | - |
| Contact | Fire Marshal (972) 874-6000 | 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.
Flower Mound FAQ
Can I burn yard waste in Flower Mound?
No. Open burning of yard waste is prohibited within Flower Mound town limits under Ch. 38 and the adopted 2024 International Fire Code. Residents must use curbside yard waste collection or the town composting drop-off instead.
Are charcoal grills and gas fire pits allowed?
Yes. Enclosed gas and propane fire pits and standard charcoal or gas cooking grills are permitted for residential use as they produce contained flames, not open burning.
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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