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Tulsa County Commissioners approved extending the burn ban within Tulsa County for a period not to exceed 7 days. Area fire officials determined conditions were appropriate for continuing the burn ban according to the guidelines for extreme fire dangers under state law. Recent rains have helped, but totals are still several inches below the yearly average.
“Over the last 30 days, Tulsa County has only received around two-thirds of our normal expected rainfall,” said Tulsa Area Emergency Management Agency Director Joseph Kralicek. “With warm dry weather forecasted, we are really taking it week by week, and continue to ask citizens to please be cautious of ignition points such as dragging chains and discarded cigarettes.”
The burn ban prohibits outdoor burning, including controlled burns, bonfires, fire pits, and chimineas. Grilling and welding over a non-flammable surface are permitted. Exemptions for agricultural burning must be obtained through area fire districts.
Enforcement of the resolution can be carried out by any law enforcement officer in the state of Oklahoma. Anyone convicted of violating the resolution will be subject to a $500 fine, or prison not to exceed a year, or both. Fine amounts may be higher in municipalities.
The burn ban will remain in effect until noon on Monday, September 12. If extreme fire danger conditions persist, subsequent resolutions may be considered for passage.
