Dimmit County lifts burn ban but keeps permits after fire‑safety warnings

Dimmit County commissioners voted to lift the countywide burn ban and ordered continued use of a formal burn‑permit process, after a lengthy exchange between commissioners and fire officials about risks from unmonitored burns.

The vote came after Assistant Fire Chief Mr. David told the court that although vegetation is greener after recent rains, uncontrolled fires remain a concern when landowners do not follow permit rules. “We had a call out where the burning contained tires, air conditioners and other hazardous materials,” he said, describing incidents that required mutual‑aid and additional regulatory involvement.

Commissioner Garana recommended lifting the ban because recent rains have reduced immediate hazard, but repeatedly urged that the court retain and enforce a permit system. That approach won the majority: the court approved lifting the ban while directing that permits remain required, that permits carry a two‑week authorization window, and that a two‑signature verification (judge’s office plus fire chief) and public notice of rules be maintained. One commissioner recorded opposition during the vote.

Why it matters: Lifting the ban restores the ability of landowners to perform permitted agricultural or brush burns after prolonged restrictions, but the court’s conditions aim to reduce the risk of property and wildland fires by keeping a monitored permit process in place. Fire officials emphasized that permits are intended to restrict burning of household refuse and hazardous items and to give emergency services a contact and location in case a fire escapes.

What was said: The assistant fire chief urged continued oversight: “The permit does not exempt someone from getting a citation for leaving an unmanned fire,” he said, noting that permits are intended to guide landowners on what may be burned safely. Commissioners agreed the county would post the permit rules in the newspaper and maintain permit records to enable rapid notification if conditions change.

Next steps: The court directed staff to publicize the lifted ban alongside instructions that residents must obtain the permit number and coordinate with the fire station before burning. Permits will remain active for two weeks and may be revoked should weather or red‑flag conditions return.