Tulsa County commissioners have issued an immediate burn ban because of extreme fire danger brought on by severe drought and limited rainfall in the forecast.
The ban will last for up to 12 days but could be extended.
According to the Board of County Commissioners, the majority of local fire chiefs support the ban after area fire departments reported higher-than-normal wildfires, many caused by escaped or controlled burns.
Under the burn ban, all outdoor burning is prohibited — including trash burning, campfires and bonfires. There are exceptions for industrial welding and gas and electric grills, but they must be used over non-flammable surfaces.
Violations could result in a misdemeanor, punishable by a $500 fine and/or up to one year in jail.
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