Controlled Burn Guidelines
Austin County Emergency Services District No. 2 (Sealy Fire Department) provides the following guidelines for residents planning a controlled burn in unincorporated areas of the county.
Before starting any burn, you must notify Austin County Dispatch at 979-865-3111 and provide:
- Your name
- Burn location
- Intended time of burn
When Burning Is Not Allowed
Outdoor burning is not permitted under the following conditions:
- During periods when a burn ban is in effect
- When wind speeds exceed 18 mph
- During extended dry conditions that increase fire risk
General Requirements
To ensure safety and compliance, the following guidelines must be followed:
- Burning is prohibited within city limits by local ordinance; these guidelines apply only to unincorporated areas
- Maintain a minimum of 300 feet from any structure
- Clear the surrounding area and have a means of extinguishment readily available
- Burn piles should not exceed 5 feet in height and 10 feet in diameter
- Establish a firebreak around the burn area
- Maintain constant supervision until the fire is completely extinguished
- Only burn natural vegetation such as trees, brush, and limbs
- Do not burn treated wood, plastics, rubber, or other prohibited materials
- All burns, except small recreational fires, should be completed before dark
Responsibility
The property owner is responsible for any damage or injury resulting from a controlled burn. It is important to follow all guidelines and take appropriate precautions.
Additional Resources
For more information on outdoor burning regulations, please refer to guidance from the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ).
Questions or Assistance
If you have questions about conducting a controlled burn or need clarification on any of the guidelines, please contact:
Austin County ESD No. 2 (Sealy Fire Department)
- Online: Contact Form
- Phone: 979-885-2222
Our personnel are available to help ensure your burn is conducted safely and in accordance with applicable guidelines.