UPDATE: APRIL 10, 2026
Nueces County officials have lifted the outdoor burning ban that was put in place nearly two weeks ago, effective as of 5:00 p.m. on April 10, 2026.
The Nueces County Commissioners Court originally implemented the burn ban on March 27, 2026, after determining that conditions in unincorporated areas of the county posed significant public safety hazards that would be worsened by outdoor burning activities.
The initial order prohibited all outdoor burning until midnight on April 28, 2026, but included provisions allowing the County Judge to terminate the ban earlier if safety conditions improved sufficiently.
According to the rescission order issued Thursday, the Nueces County Judge has now determined that conditions in unincorporated areas "no longer pose a public safety hazard that would be exacerbated by outdoor burning."
The lifting of the burn ban comes after careful monitoring of local conditions, including drought levels, wind patterns, and fire risk assessments, which originally prompted the safety measure.
Residents in unincorporated areas of Nueces County may now resume outdoor burning activities, though they are still encouraged to follow standard fire safety precautions and check local conditions before conducting any burns.
ORIGINAL: MARCH 26, 2026
In response to critical drought conditions and an elevated risk of wildfires, Nueces County has extended its 60-day burn ban, effective immediately.
The ban applies to all unincorporated areas of the county and will remain in effect through April 28.
Local officials warn that a combination of high winds and an accumulation of dry brush has created an elevated fire danger, where even a single spark can lead to a catastrophic fire.
“Public safety continues to be our top priority. Under these conditions, a small ember can quickly escalate into a dangerous wildfire,” Corpus Christi Fire Chief Brandon Wade said.
“We are asking all residents to remain vigilant and refrain from any activities that could put our community at risk,” Wade said.
While the ban is in effect, outdoor burning of trash, yard waste, or debris is strictly prohibited within city parks and beaches. Recreational fires, including bonfires and campfires, are also banned on beaches and in parks within city limits, along with any outdoor activity involving open flames or heat sources.
To protect the community and prevent accidental ignitions, residents are urged to exercise caution with equipment and avoid outdoor welding or cutting. If necessary, ensure a water source and fire watch are present.
Officials also advise against parking vehicles on dry grass, as exhaust systems can ignite the vegetation. Residents should never discard cigarettes outdoors or from moving vehicles, and ensure lawnmowers and tractors are in good working order to prevent sparks.
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