San Patricio County, Texas
Open burning is currently prohibited in San Patricio county. The order took effect on September 5, 2025.
What this means
- Open burning of yard waste, brush and debris
- Trash and vegetation burning of any kind
- Warming fires and unattended fires outdoors
- Small cooking fires (grill, camp stove)
Penalties in Texas
Under Local Government Code §352.081, violating a county burn-ban order is a Class C misdemeanor punishable by a fine of up to $500. Local ordinances may add penalties.
Classification: Class C misdemeanor · Maximum fine: up to $500
Recent status history
- Sep 5, 2025 — Burn Ban in Effect
Sources & audit log
| Checked | Source | Result |
|---|---|---|
| Sep 16, 2026 | Texas A&M Forest Service ↗ | status: Burn Ban in Effect |
Neighbouring counties
Notify me when this changes
One email when San Patricio county's status changes — nothing else. No newsletter, no marketing. One-click unsubscribe.
Still legal during a ban
None of these are a way around San Patricio county's restriction — they're what stays legal regardless of it: contained burning, screened fire pits, and basic fire safety gear. Always confirm locally before burning anything.
Contained burn barrels
A lidded, spark-arrestor barrel keeps debris burning contained rather than as open burning — check your county's rules, since some bans cover any outdoor fire regardless of containment.
Marabuut30-Inch Corten Steel Burn Barrel with Mesh LidMesh lid helps contain sparks and embers. Airflow vents, sturdy base, handles for ash removal.View on Amazon 
AURENZOStainless Steel Burn Cage with Removable Ash CatcherSolid steel lid contains flying embers. 360° ventilation slots and a slide-out ash tray.View on Amazon Patio fire pits with spark screens
Most burn bans target open debris burning, not a screened recreational fire pit — but always confirm locally, since some restrictions cover any outdoor flame.
Fire extinguishers
Always worth having on hand near any permitted fire, ban or no ban.
Product links on this page are Amazon affiliate links — as an Amazon Associate, burnbanradar earns from qualifying purchases. This never changes the price you pay or which county status we show. See our affiliate disclosure.
Limits of this information
burnbanradar reads public burn-ban orders as published by Texas A&M Forest Service and reports them unchanged. Cities and municipalities within San Patricio county may impose stricter rules than the county order. Water districts and state forestry rules may add further restrictions. When an order is ambiguous or the source cannot be reached, we show Unconfirmed instead of guessing a status. The county's own posted order governs.
Common questions
Is San Patricio county under a burn ban right now?
Yes. San Patricio county is currently under a burn ban issued by Texas A&M Forest Service, effective since September 5, 2025. Open burning is prohibited until the order is lifted.
When did the San Patricio burn ban start?
The Texas A&M Forest Service order took effect on September 5, 2025. It stays in effect until conditions improve or the order is formally lifted.
What can I still burn in San Patricio county during this ban?
During a burn ban, small cooking fires (grills, camp stoves) typically remain allowed. Open burning of yard waste, brush, debris, and trash is prohibited. Consult the county order or fire marshal for exceptions — some jurisdictions permit specific commercial activities.
How do I report an illegal fire in San Patricio county?
Call 911 for any fire that is out of control or threatens property. For non-emergency violations of a burn-ban order, contact the San Patricio Sheriff's Office or fire marshal.