The Rusk County Commissioners Court has enacted a burn ban for the county’s unincorporated areas in response to ongoing drought conditions and an increased risk of wildfires. County officials said the ban was issued after determining that current drought and fire weather conditions pose a public safety hazard that would be worsened by outdoor burning. Under the order, all outdoor burning is prohibited in the unincorporated areas of Rusk County. Email newsletter signupAnyone who violates the burn ban may be charged with a Class C misdemeanor and fined up to $500. County officials encourage residents to use caution with any activity that could create sparks or flames while dry conditions persist.