Q&A: Oklahoma County Commissioner clarifies burn ban criteria

Oklahoma County Commissioner Brian Maughan discussed the current fire risk conditions and why the county has not yet enacted a burn ban, despite ongoing drought concerns.

Related: How burn bans work in Oklahoma

Q: Why hasn’t Oklahoma County enacted a burn ban?

A: By state statute, there are specific criteria that must be met before a county can enact a burn ban, and currently, Oklahoma County does not meet that threshold.

Q: What factors are preventing the county from meeting the burn ban criteria?

A: Recently, the county received significant rainfall and moisture, including residual moisture from the ice storm. This has kept ground conditions from reaching the necessary level of dryness to justify a burn ban.

Q: Could the governor impose a burn ban?

A: Yes, the governor has the authority to enact a burn ban through an executive order. County commissioners, however, are only allowed to act within the scope of state law.

Q: Are there drought conditions in the county?

A: Yes, there are drought conditions, but the county is still two levels above the minimum threshold required to start discussions on implementing a burn ban.

Q: How would a burn ban impact residents?

A: Many residents in Oklahoma County do not have regular trash service and rely on burning trash for disposal. Additionally, there are still tree limbs left over from past ice storms and tornadoes that people are trying to clear. A burn ban could delay their ability to dispose of debris.

Q: How long do burn bans typically last?

A: When implemented, burn bans usually last two to three weeks. However, due to the impact on residents, commissioners historically view burn bans as a last resort.

Q: How does the situation differ for those in urban areas?

A: In urban areas, residents have access to scheduled bulk trash pickup or dumpsters, which are not available to some rural residents who rely on burning for waste disposal.

Q: Could the governor implement a short-term burn ban?

A: There is some discussion that the governor might impose a temporary burn ban, possibly lasting 72 hours, to address the most critical fire risk periods in the forecast.

Q: Who does the county work with when evaluating fire risk?

A: The county collaborates with the Association of Central Oklahoma Governments (ACOG) and the Oklahoma County Emergency Management team, which consults with local fire chiefs and the fire marshal.

Q: What advice do you have for residents considering burning?

A: Given the current high winds, residents should use good judgment when burning. If possible, it’s best to wait a few days for conditions to improve. Should the county reach the drought criteria, officials will reassess and take appropriate action.