Outdoor burning rules in Houston, TX — also called the burn ban, open burning, or fire restriction ordinance — set when you can burn yard waste, debris, or run a recreational fire.
Open burning is prohibited within Houston city limits under the adopted Fire Code and TCEQ 30 TAC §111.209. The Houston-Galveston-Brazoria ozone nonattainment area adds air quality restrictions. Report violations to HFD at 832-394-6900.
Houston prohibits all open burning within city limits. This includes burning trash, yard waste, leaves, and bonfires. TCEQ's 30 TAC §111.209 governs outdoor burning statewide, and Houston's location in the Houston-Galveston-Brazoria EPA ozone nonattainment area imposes additional air quality restrictions. The Houston Fire Department Fire Prevention Division enforces the ban. Recreational fires in approved manufactured containers (fire pits, chimineas) are the only permitted outdoor flames. Violations should be reported to HFD Fire Prevention at 832-394-6900 during business hours or the non-emergency dispatch at 713-884-3131 after hours.
Fire code violation with fines. Report burning trash or bonfires to HFD Fire Prevention at 832-394-6900 (day) or 713-884-3131 (after hours).
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Side-by-side rule comparisons with other cities in Harris County.
See how other cities in Harris County handle outdoor burning.
See how Houston's outdoor burning rules stack up against other locations.
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