No Permits or Authorization for Outdoor Burning


The Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) has generally prohibited outdoor burning with few exceptions. These exceptions can be found in the TCEQ Outdoor Burning Rules which have been designed to protect the environment and promote public health and safety. The Texas Administrative Code (TAC), Title 30, Part 1, Chapter 111.209 (1), (2), (3), (4)(A),(6), (7) provide the laws pertaining to outdoor burning exceptions and can be found at the TCEQ website. The TCEQ does not issue burning permits. If your situation fits all requirements for one of the exceptions described in the rule, you may conduct outdoor burning, as long as you comply with all the conditions. Depending on the circumstances, you may also need approval from the appropriate regional TCEQ office before you burn. The authority to conduct outdoor burning does not exempt or excuse any person of the responsible from the consequences, damages, or injuries resulting from outdoor burning. It also does not exempt or excuse anyone from complying with all other applicable laws, ordinances, or regulations in Collin County.
To report someone who is illegally burning contact the TCEQ Region 4 office at 817-588-5800. The TCEQ’S environmental hotline may also be used at 888-777-3186.
Neither the Collin County Fire Marshal nor any other county office can give permission to conduct outdoor burning; only the TCEQ can determine if the request meets an outdoor burning exception.

For an explanation of the Outdoor Burn Rules please visit the TCEQ website and search outdoor burning.