Leander, TX Fire Regulations: Backyard Fires (2026)

Leander treats open backyard fires as outdoor burning, which is prohibited inside the city under Ordinance Number 13-038-00 (Article 5.05 of Chapter 5). The city's published outdoor burning rules draw a clear line: outdoor cooking on private property must be done in a covered grill or smoker designed to protect against the spread of fire, while open burning options such as campfires, bonfires and cooking fires are described as available only outside the city limits. Outside Leander, in unincorporated Williamson or Travis County, residents may have an open fire only when no burn ban is in effect and the fire department has given proper authorization, and they must register control burns with Williamson County dispatch at 512-864-8282. The county procedures require starting one hour after sunrise, keeping the fire within a four-foot square, maintaining at least 300 feet from sensitive receptors, burning only at wind speeds of 6-23 mph, extinguishing one hour before sunset, and keeping water and suppression equipment ready. For residents inside Leander who want a backyard fire feature, the practical, compliant options are contained gas appliances and covered cooking grills or smokers rather than open wood fires. Residents should confirm specifics with the Leander Fire Marshal before any outdoor fire.