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Pasadena, TX Fire Regulations: Outdoor Burning (2026)

Light Restrictions
Compiled from the official code textEditor Martyn O'NeillLast verified April 2026

Outdoor burning rules in Pasadena, 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.

Key Facts

Open Burning
Generally prohibited
State Rule
TCEQ 30 TAC Ch. 111
Fire Code
IFC 2015 (Ch. 13)
Air Quality Zone
Ozone nonattainment area

Summary

Outdoor burning in Pasadena is regulated under the IFC 2015 (Ch. 13) and TCEQ outdoor burning rules (30 TAC Ch. 111). Open burning of trash, yard waste, and construction debris is generally prohibited within city limits. The Fire Marshal must approve any outdoor burning.

§111.201. General Prohibition (2) Extinguished—The absence of any visible flames, glowing coals, or smoke. No person may cause, suffer, allow, or permit any outdoor burning within the State of Texas, except as (3) Landclearing operation—The uprooting, provided by this subchapter or by orders or permits of cutting, or clearing of vegetation in connection the commission. Outdoor disposal or deposition of any with conversion for the construction of buildings, material capable of igniting spontaneously, with the rights-of-way, residential, commercial, or industrial exception of the stora

Source: Pasadena Code Ch. 13 – Fire PreventionView official code

Full Breakdown

Pasadena adopted the IFC 2015 under Chapter 13 which restricts open burning. TCEQ 30 TAC Chapter 111 governs outdoor burning statewide and generally prohibits burning within city limits except for specific exemptions like firefighter training and agricultural burns. Recreational fires in approved containers (fire pits, chimineas) are allowed subject to IFC setback requirements. Burning of household trash, construction debris, and yard waste is prohibited. Pasadena is located in the Houston-Galveston-Brazoria ozone nonattainment area, which imposes additional air quality restrictions. The Fire Marshal may impose burn bans during drought or poor air quality conditions.

Violations & Fines

Illegal burning: fine up to $2,000 under city code. TCEQ enforcement may impose additional state penalties.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I burn yard waste in Pasadena TX?
No. Open burning of trash and yard waste is generally prohibited within Pasadena city limits under TCEQ rules and the adopted IFC 2015.
Are recreational fires allowed?
Yes. Contained recreational fires in fire pits or chimineas are allowed subject to IFC setback requirements and Fire Marshal approval.

Sources & Official References

Other rules in Pasadena

All Pasadena rules

How Pasadena compares: Cities with the Strictest Outdoor Burning Rules·Texas rules heatmap·Compare Pasadena to another location·View the Texas fire regulations overview

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