Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is a burn ban?
A: A burn ban is a prohibition on outdoor burning, enforced by state law, to prevent wildfires during high-risk conditions.

Q: Who can issue a burn ban in Oklahoma?
A: Burn bans can be issued by the Governor or county commissioners. A Governor-proclaimed burn ban supersedes county burn bans.

Q: What criteria are used to declare a burn ban?
A: County commissioners, often in consultation with local fire departments, emergency management agencies, and forestry experts, determine when a burn ban is necessary. Commissioners can declare a burn ban if extreme fire danger exists, which includes severe drought conditions, minimal precipitation forecast, and high fire occurrence.

Q: What is the process for county commissioners to issue a burn ban?
A: County commissioners must pass a resolution during a public meeting, notify the Oklahoma Forestry Services, local news media, law enforcement, and relevant state departments.

Q: How long does a county-issued burn ban last?
A: A county-issued burn ban is effective for up to 14 days but can be extended if extreme fire conditions persist.

Q: What activities are restricted during a burn ban?
A: Outdoor burning of brush, grass, leaves, campfires, bonfires, fireworks, and sky lanterns are prohibited during a burn ban.

Q: What are the penalties for violating a burn ban?
A: Violating a burn ban can result in fines and legal consequences, as it poses a significant risk to public safety.

Q: How can residents stay informed about burn bans?
A: Residents can refer to the Board of County Commissioner meetings, check the  County's website for an alert banner at the top, Rogers County's Facebook page, Rogers County Emergency Management's Facebook page, Oklahoma Forestry Services website for updates on burn bans and follow local news for announcements.