The following statement has been made by Tulsa County:
The Tulsa County Board of County Commissioners has approved a resolution declaring an extreme fire danger and implementing an immediate burn ban across Tulsa County.
The action comes as Tulsa County faces severe drought conditions, according to the U.S. Drought Monitor, with limited rainfall forecast by the National Weather Service.
Local fire departments are also reporting higher-than-normal fire activity, with more than 20 percent of recent fires caused by escaped or controlled burns.
A majority of Tulsa County Fire Chiefs supported the measure and recommended limiting exceptions to reduce wildfire risk.
Key Points of the Resolution:
•An immediate burn ban is in effect for Tulsa County for up to 12 days
•The ban may be lifted early or extended if dangerous conditions persist
•All outdoor burning is prohibited, including trash burning, campfires, and bonfires
• Exceptions are limited to:
o Gas or electric grills used over non-flammable surfaces
o Industrial welding over non-flammable surfaces
•Violations are considered a misdemeanor, punishable by up to a $500 fine, up to one year in jail, or both
The resolution was enacted with documented support from a majority of the county’s municipal and rural fire chiefs and is enforceable by law enforcement across the state.
These measures are necessary to protect lives, property, and emergency responders during heightened fire risk conditions.
Residents are urged to remain vigilant and follow all burn ban guidelines until conditions improve.
