Fire Safety

Wildfire Risk Is Real in Howard County — Check Burn Bans Before Burning

West Texas drought conditions make wildfire a regular hazard in Howard County, and county commissioners can issue burn bans on short notice.

Howard County Rules & Licenses

Howard County sits in a dry, wind-prone part of West Texas. Drought is common. When conditions are dangerous, the County Commissioners Court can issue a burn ban. A burn ban restricts outdoor burning to protect people and property. Bans can last up to 90 days and can be renewed.

Before you burn brush, trash, or anything outdoors, check whether a burn ban is active. Texas A&M Forest Service tracks current burn bans by county and publishes that data online. You can also check the Howard County website or call the county. Under state law (Texas Local Government Code 352.081), violating a burn ban can result in fines.

Source to confirm: Texas A&M Forest Service — Burn Bans and Information

More Howard County notes

Property Tax Basics

Two Offices Handle Your Property Tax in Howard County

Howard County has two separate offices for property taxes — the appraisal district sets your value, and the tax assessor-collector sends your bill.

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Property Tax Savings

Homestead Exemption Can Lower Your Tax Bill in Big Spring

If you own and live in your home in Howard County, a homestead exemption can reduce the taxable value of your property.

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Agricultural Appraisal

Farm and Ranch Land Can Be Taxed on Productivity, Not Market Value

In Howard County, agricultural land can qualify for a special lower tax valuation based on what the land produces, not what it would sell for.

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Groundwater Rules

A Groundwater District Regulates Water Wells in Most of Howard County

Most of Howard County falls under the Permian Basin Underground Water Conservation District, which requires permits and spacing rules for new water wells.

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