Central Texas Counties Lift Burn Bans After Weekend Rain

Bell and Lampasas counties have lifted burn bans, while others in the region remain in effect.

Published on Feb. 17, 2026

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Several Central Texas counties, including Bell and Lampasas, have lifted burn bans that were previously in effect following recent rainfall over the weekend. However, some neighboring counties such as Hill, Limestone, Leon, Freestone, Burleson, Milam, Coryell, and Madison remain under active burn bans.

Why it matters

Burn bans are implemented during dry conditions to reduce the risk of wildfires, which can be devastating to local communities. The lifting of these bans in some areas indicates improved moisture levels, though the ongoing bans in surrounding counties show the need to maintain caution with outdoor burning.

The details

Bell County Judge David Blackburn lifted the burn ban in his county on Saturday, Feb. 14, ahead of the previously planned end date of Tuesday, Feb. 17. The burn ban had been in effect for four days. While the ban is lifted, residents in Bell County are still required to report any planned burns through the county's burn ban phone line. Lampasas County has also lifted its burn ban following the recent rainfall.

  • The Bell County burn ban was lifted on Saturday, February 14, 2026.
  • The Bell County burn ban had been in effect for 4 days prior to being lifted.

The players

David Blackburn

The Bell County Judge who lifted the burn ban in his county.

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The takeaway

The lifting of burn bans in some Central Texas counties is a positive sign that recent rainfall has improved moisture levels and reduced the immediate wildfire risk. However, the ongoing bans in surrounding areas show the need for continued caution and vigilance when it comes to outdoor burning activities.