Corpus Christi, TX Fire Regulations: Outdoor Burning (2026)

Corpus Christi prohibits outdoor burning of trash, yard waste, construction debris, and other refuse within city limits. This prohibition is enforced year-round and applies to residential and commercial properties alike. The city and Nueces County frequently issue additional burn bans during drought conditions, which further restrict any open-flame activity including recreational fires. Texas Commission on Environmental Quality rule 30 TAC 111.209 governs outdoor burning statewide, allowing limited exceptions for agricultural burning, firefighter training, and land-clearing operations with proper authorization. Within Corpus Christi, even these exceptions typically require coordination with the Fire Prevention Bureau. When outdoor burning is allowed in unincorporated areas during non-ban periods, TCEQ guidelines require fires to start no earlier than 30 minutes before dawn and be fully extinguished 30 minutes after dusk, a 10-foot cleared perimeter, a water source on hand, constant attendance, and burning only natural materials. Residents should use the city's curbside yard-waste collection instead of burning.