Harris County Commissioners Court approved a 90-day burn ban Thursday, Sept. 17, restricting outdoor fires across all unincorporated parts of the county.

The ban took effect immediately. It covers unincorporated Harris County, meaning areas outside the boundaries of incorporated cities. Friendswood, Webster, Seabrook, Nassau Bay and Clear Lake Shores are incorporated, so the ban does not automatically apply within their city limits.

Residents who live near city boundaries or in unincorporated pockets should check with their local fire department to confirm whether their property falls under the order.

The Harris County Fire Marshal's Office requested the ban after uneven rainfall left parts of the county dry enough for fire to spread quickly, CW39 reported. Fire Marshal Laurie L. Christensen said recent rain improved conditions in some areas, but the county spans more than 1,700 square miles and conditions vary widely.

The National Integrated Drought Information System had classified Harris County as "abnormally dry" before the vote. As of Sept. 17, 216 Texas counties were under burn bans, according to KHOU, citing the Harris County Fire Marshal's Office. Neighboring Fort Bend, Waller, Brazoria and Galveston counties already had bans in place.

What's allowed and what's not

Outdoor burning is prohibited unless the fire is fully contained in an enclosure that holds all flames and sparks. Backyard grilling is permitted as long as residents keep grills away from dry grass and other flammable material.

The order also temporarily bans the sale of "sticks and fins" fireworks in unincorporated Harris County.

Penalties

A violation is a Class C misdemeanor carrying a fine of up to $500. A fire that damages property during the ban could lead to additional criminal charges.

When the ban could lift

The ban runs 90 days from Sept. 17, putting the automatic expiration on or around Dec. 16. Commissioners Court can suspend or extend it before then. The ban also lifts early if the Texas A&M Forest Service determines drought conditions no longer exist in the county.

Residents who spot an unattended fire should call 911 and notify their local fire department.