Burn ban in Austin parks is lifted

AUSTIN (KXAN) - Recent rains and improving drought conditions have led to Austin's parks and recreation director to lift the burn ban for all city parks.

However, the parks all remain smoke-free, and this lifting of a fire ban does not apply to smoking. This applies, as well, to those planning to be in Zilker Park for the Austin City Limits Music Festival activities Friday through Sunday.

Sara Hensley lifted the burn ban effective immediately, it was announced Wednesday.

Hensley reminds the public to take safety precautions while grilling in designated areas:

• Never leave a fire unattended
• Keep a source of water nearby
• Before leaving the site make sure the fire is fully extinguished

Campfires are only allowed at Emma Long Metropolitan Park and these must be attended at all times by an adult until fully extinguished.

The Austin Parks and Recreation Department will reevaluate the wildfire risk and drought conditions on an ongoing basis. If conditions worsen and the threat of wildfire increases the department will issue a Burn Ban Order to be effective immediately.

Smoking violations are a Class C misdemeanor punishable by a fine up to $2,000 pursuant to Chapter 10-6 of the Austin City Code.

For more information, contact 512-974-6700.