Call the Anderson County Sheriff's Office non-emergency number at 903-729-6068 to learn the status of burn bans and to report if you plan to burn.
Outdoor burning is permissible when there is not a burn ban in effect and conditions are safe. You should always take precautions when burning trash or engaging in any type of outdoor burning activity. Remember, negligent outdoor burning is a crime regardless if a burn ban is in effect or not.
Allowing your fire to escape onto someone else's property is a Class C misdemeanor offense (the same as violation of a burn ban) that is punishable by a fine up to $500.
Consider these tips for outdoor burning:
- Create a defensible space of at least 30 feet around your house and outbuildings; keep lawns mowed and prune trees and shrubs.
- Establish wide control lines (fuel breaks) along roadways and between buildings and fields or woodlands.
- Keep mufflers and spark arresters on agricultural equipment in proper working order and watch out for rocks and metal when bush hogging or mowing.
- Monitor hay-baling operations closely, dry hay can ignite within the baler.
- Watch out for sparks when using welding equipment and always have a water source on hand
- Avoid driving or parking vehicles in tall dry grassy areas
- Postpone outdoor burning until your area greens up
- Burn trash in a burn barrel or other fire-safe receptacle covered with a wire mesh or grid that will help contain burning debris. Stay with your fire until it is out.
We all play a part in keeping ourselves, neighbors and friends safe when we burn. If you have any questions, please contact our office at 903-723-7813.