Taylor County Issues Burn Ban Through Sept. 28, Here's What You Need to Know

Burn Ban Now in Effect

Taylor County is officially under a burn ban, effective July 1, 2025, and running through September 28, 2025, unless lifted earlier by the County Judge. This decision was made in response to dangerous fire conditions, including extreme heat, high winds, and dry vegetation that pose a serious wildfire risk.

ESPN 960 San Angelo logo
Get our free mobile app

Fireworks Still Allowed in Some Areas

The burn ban does NOT ban fireworks in the unincorporated parts of Taylor County (outside city limits or ETJs aka Extraterritorial Jurisdictions). However, fireworks are banned within the City of Abilene and other municipalities. Residents should check local city ordinances before setting off fireworks.

Keep in mind: It's still a Class C Misdemeanor to discharge fireworks on a county road or right of way. Citizens may also be held criminally or civilly liable for any fire damage caused by fireworks.

Hidden Fire Starters to Watch For

During a recent radio conversation with Commissioner Chuck Statler, we discussed common but often overlooked fire risks, including:

  • Dragging trailer chains
  • Sparks from welding or cutting metal
  • Grilling near dry grass
  • Electric fences near weeds
  • Driving or parking in tall, dry grass
  • Cigarette butts tossed from cars

Let’s All Do Our Part

Report any smoke or suspicious activity immediately. Check on neighbors, especially the elderly, and stay alert to fire dangers. Together, we can prevent another wildfire disaster in West Texas.

No Outdoor Burning Allowed

A reminder from your Taylor County Judge and your local officials: No burning of any kind is permitted during this ban.

Thank you to our firefighters, volunteers, and first responders. Stay safe, Texas.

Abilene Area Firework Stands

Gallery Credit: Chaz

2025's Hottest Fireworks Picks

Shopping for fireworks is a lot like picking out a new vehicle. While you're interested in what a car or truck can do, we generally pick based on how they look. The fireworks store is full of sensory-overload designs and hilarious images, but logos rarely tell you what it does. We visited King Fireworks in Geronimo, OK, where they have a cool scanner system that pulls up the fireworks on TVs throughout the store so you can see what you're buying, but here are their top picks and best bangs for your buck this year.

Gallery Credit: Kelso

6 Movies You Should Watch on Independence Day

Stars, stripes, and cinema! Six movies you should watch on Independence day!