Outdoor Burning – Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Is outdoor burning allowed in the county?

Outdoor burning may be allowed under limited conditions when there is no burn ban in effect and weather conditions are safe. All outdoor burning must comply with state law and local regulations.

2. How do I know if a burn ban is in effect?

Burn bans are issued by the County Judge and Commissioners Court based on weather and fire risk conditions.
You can check the current burn ban status by:

• Visiting the county website

• Calling the Fire Marshal’s Office

• Monitoring official county social media pages

3. What types of outdoor burning are allowed?

When no burn ban is in effect, allowable burning may include:

• Agricultural burning

• Burning of brush generated on the property

• Small recreational fires (such as fire pits or campfires)

All burns must be conducted safely and may require prior notification or authorization.

4. What types of outdoor burning are prohibited?

The following are always prohibited, even when no burn ban is in effect:

• Burning construction or demolition debris

• Burning plastics, tires, treated wood, or hazardous materials

• Burning that creates a nuisance, heavy smoke, or traffic hazard

5. Do I need a permit or approval to burn?

Some types of burning may require prior approval or notification to the Fire Marshal’s Office.
Contact the office before burning to confirm requirements and restrictions.

6. Are burn barrels allowed?

Burn barrels are strongly encouraged and may be required depending on conditions. When in use, burn barrels must:

• Be properly screened

• Be constantly attended

• Be extinguished immediately if conditions become unsafe

7. Can I burn if it is windy?

No. Burning during high winds, low humidity, or dry conditions is dangerous and may be prohibited even when no burn ban is in effect.
If weather conditions are unsafe, do not burn.

8. What safety precautions are required when burning?

Anyone conducting outdoor burning must:

• Have a responsible adult present at all times

• Keep water, a hose, or fire extinguishing tools readily available

• Clear combustible material around the burn area

• Fully extinguish the fire before leaving the area

9. Can I burn at night?

Nighttime burning is illegal in Texas except for recreational fires (camp fires). Reduced visibility increases the risk of uncontrolled fires and delayed response.

10. What should I do if my fire gets out of control?

Call 911 immediately.
Early notification can prevent property damage, injuries, and larger wildfires.

11. Can fireworks be used during a burn ban?

During a burn ban, certain fireworks may be restricted or prohibited, especially aerial or explosive types. Always verify fireworks regulations before use.

12. What happens if I violate outdoor burning regulations?

Violations may result in:

• Criminal charges or citations

• Civil fines

• Liability for fire suppression costs or damages

13. Who do I contact with questions about outdoor burning?

For questions or clarification, contact the Fire Marshal’s Office at:
Office Phone: 361-579-9103

Fireworks – Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I shoot fireworks from or at a vehicle, boat, public roadway, public property, park, or lake?

No. Fireworks may not be discharged from or toward:

• A vehicle or boat

• A public roadway

• Public property or parks

• Lakes or waterways

Doing so is a Class C misdemeanor, punishable by a fine of up to $500.

Where can I legally and safely use fireworks?

Fireworks may be discharged only when no burn ban or restriction is in effect, and under the following conditions:

• In unincorporated areas of the county

• On your own private property, or

• On private property with written permission from the owner

Additional requirements:

• Fireworks are prohibited within most city limits and within 5,000 feet of most cities

• Fireworks must not land on adjacent property

• Fireworks should only be used in open areas

• Larger fireworks require larger, open safety zones

• Fireworks may not be discharged from roads or roadways

Victoria County typically designates approved fireworks discharge locations during major holidays.

Is there a designated fireworks shooting area in Victoria County?

Yes. When allowed and conditions are safe:

• Patriot Park is opened for fireworks use on July 4th and December 31st

Always confirm dates, times, and restrictions with the Victoria County Fire Marshal’s Office at 361-579-9103 before using fireworks.

What happens if I start a fire while shooting fireworks?

If a fire results from fireworks use:

• Intentional fire that damages another person’s property may result in an Arson charge, punishable by:

  • 2 to 20 years in prison

  • A fine of up to $10,000

• Accidental fire that damages another person’s property may result in:

  • A fine of up to $1,500

In all cases, the responsible party may be held civilly liable for property damage and fire suppression costs.

Are fireworks allowed during high winds or dry conditions?

No. Fireworks should not be used during:

• High winds

• Low humidity

• Extremely dry conditions

Even if no burn ban is in effect, unsafe weather conditions may make fireworks use illegal or unsafe.

Are fireworks allowed after midnight?

Fireworks use may be restricted by time, location, or local order. Always check approved hours and locations before use.

What fireworks are legal in the county?

Only state-approved consumer fireworks may be used. Illegal fireworks include:

• Explosive or military-style devices

• Homemade fireworks

• Modified fireworks

What safety precautions should I take when using fireworks?

• Have water, a hose, or a fire extinguisher readily available

• Keep fireworks away from structures, vehicles, and dry vegetation

• Never allow children to handle fireworks

• Fully extinguish used fireworks before disposal

What should I do if a fireworks fire gets out of control?

Call 911 immediately. Early reporting can prevent serious damage and injury.

Who can I contact with questions about fireworks safety or legality?

For fireworks regulations, safety guidance, or burn ban information, contact the:

Victoria County Fire Marshal’s Office
?? 361-579-9103