Cameron County, TX Fire Regulations: Fire Pits & Backyard Fires (2026)
Fire pit rules in Cameron County, TX, also called outdoor burning, recreational fire, or open flame ordinances, cover fuel types, clearances, and when burning is allowed.
Key Facts
- Fire pits
- Permitted, even during burn ban
- Ground fires
- Banned during burn ban
- Ban authority
- LGC 352.081, Commissioners Court
- Typical duration
- Up to 90 days
- Violation
- Class C misdemeanor
Summary
Residential fire pits are generally allowed in unincorporated Cameron County. During a Commissioners Court burn ban, ground fires are prohibited but residential fire pits and BBQ grills remain permitted. Cities may adopt stricter fire-pit rules within their limits.
Ground fires, including the burning of trash, yard waste, or other materials directly on the ground, are prohibited during the burn ban. However, residential fire pits and BBQ grills are still permitted.
Full Breakdown
The county has no zoning code regulating backyard fire pits, but its burn-ban orders draw the line. Cameron County's outdoor burn ban prohibits ground fires, including burning trash, yard waste, or other materials directly on the ground, yet expressly keeps 'residential fire pits and BBQ grills' permitted. Orders are issued by the Commissioners Court under Local Government Code 352.081 when drought or wildfire-hazard conditions exist. Outside a ban, contained recreational fires in a fire pit are treated as recreational rather than prohibited outdoor burning under TCEQ rules. Always confirm your city's fire code if you are inside municipal limits.
Violations & Fines
Setting a prohibited ground fire during a burn ban is a Class C misdemeanor under LGC 352.081(h). Fire pits and grills used per the order are exempt.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a backyard fire pit during a Cameron County burn ban?
Does the county regulate fire-pit size or setbacks?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Cameron County
How Cameron County compares: Cities with the Strictest Fire Pit Rules·Texas rules heatmap·Compare Cameron County to another location·View the Texas fire regulations overview
See something wrong?
Help us keep this page accurate. If you notice an error or outdated information, let us know.