Fire Weather

Wildfire risk is real in Hale County during dry and windy weather

The High Plains gets Red Flag Warnings for critical fire weather several times a year; outdoor burning during these periods is dangerous.

Hale County Rules & Licenses

Red Flag Warnings mean very dry air, low humidity, and strong winds all arrive at once. On the South Plains, this combination can turn a small fire into a fast-moving wildfire. The NWS Lubbock office issues these warnings for Hale County during dangerous periods.

If you live in or near Hale County, watch for burn bans issued by the county judge. Burn bans are local orders that restrict outdoor burning. They can change quickly based on conditions. Check with Hale County emergency management or the Texas A&M Forest Service for current burn ban status before burning any brush or debris. There is no permanent burn ban — the status is set based on current conditions.

Source to confirm: NWS Lubbock

More Hale County notes

Property Tax Basics

Two offices handle property taxes in Hale County

Hale County splits property tax duties between two offices, which can confuse new property owners.

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Homestead Exemption

A homestead exemption can lower your property tax bill

Texas law lets homeowners reduce what their home is taxed on if they live there as their main residence.

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Agricultural Valuation

Farm and ranch land can be taxed on what it produces, not its market price

Texas allows working agricultural land to be appraised at its farming productivity value, which is usually much lower than market value.

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Mineral Rights

Mineral rights and surface rights are often owned by different people in Hale County

Oil was discovered in Hale County in 1946, and mineral rights on many properties were severed from surface rights long ago — check before you buy.

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