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The Logan County Board of County Commissioners approved a countywide burn ban during an emergency meeting Monday.
The ban is in effect for up to 14 days beginning Aug. 10.
According to Oklahoma Forestry Services, nine counties across the state are currently under burn bans.
The burn ban makes it unlawful for any person to set fire to any forest, grass, range, crop or other wildlands. The restriction would also prohibit campfires, bonfires and the burning of trash or other materials that could spark a wildfire.
Oklahoma County has implemented a 14-day burn ban as firefighters respond to more than 130 wildfires in the past month amid triple-digit temperatures and dry conditions.
David Barnes, director of Oklahoma County Emergency Management, told KOCO Channel 5 the county needed to be under a burn ban due to the current weather conditions.
“It’s just a reminder for people to be really careful with any kind of ignition source,” Barnes said.
There are several exceptions to a county burn ban under specific conditions.
Welding, cutting torch and grinding activities are permitted if conducted over a noncombustible surface at least 10 feet by 10 feet, with welding blankets or screens covering nearby flammable vegetation. Wind speeds must be below 10 mph, and a separate fire watch must be present with access to pressurized water or a fire extinguisher.
Outdoor cooking is allowed using propane or natural gas grills, provided the grill is placed on a nonflammable surface and at least five feet away from any flammable vegetation.
Agricultural burning is also permitted but must follow guidelines. Individuals must have an approved burn plan for the duration of the burn.
Violations of a burn ban can be enforced by any law enforcement officer in the state. Those found in violation may face a misdemeanor charge, punishable by a fine of up to $500, up to one year in jail, or both.