Parks Department announces burn ban

Due to drought conditions and the threat of wildfire, the Austin Parks and Recreation Department has issued a burn ban in all city parks, greenbelts and preserves. The ban prohibits open fires and grilling, including the use of wood- and charcoal-burning barbecue pits, grills and smokers; however, propane stoves are allowed in designated picnic areas. Park rangers and Austin Police Department officers will be actively enforcing the burn ban as well as the smoking ban within city parks. A violation can draw a fine of between $300 and $500. According to an announcement from the city, the Parks and Recreation Department “will lift the ban as soon as conditions allow.”