Burn Bans Increasing in East Texas

EAST TEXAS — In the face of persistent hot, dry conditions, the number of East Texas localities issuing outdoor burning bans is continuing to grow. KETK reports the city of Gladewater now prohibits outdoor burning, as does the city of White Oak. According to the White Oak Police Department, any burning within city limits is prohibited until the ban is lifted, and no burn permits will be issued in White Oak.

Cherokee County issued a burn ban Tuesday. You can go to http://www.co.cherokee.tx.us to read the entire order from County Judge Chris Davis. The city of Troup announced a burn ban of its own on Tuesday. Any person who violates the order can be fined up to $500. In 2013, the city council passed an ordinance to allow the mayor to sign off on a burn ban if either Smith County or Cherokee County issues its own ban, due to Troup’s geographic location in both counties. Smith County has yet to impose a burning prohibition, though Smith County officials are advising residents to exercise caution while burning. Elsewhere, burn bans are in effect for Anderson and Marion Counties.