This action follows close consultation with the County Fire Marshal and our Office of Homeland Security & Emergency Management.

Prolonged dry weather and critically dry fuels mean even small sparks can quickly become dangerous wildfires. Burning of household refuse or rubbish is illegal year round in Montgomery County and despite that law we have seen many fires over the past few days caused by illegal burning.

This order signed today prohibits all outdoor burning that is not permitted by the state and inspected by our fire marshal's office.

We will continue to monitor weather and drought conditions and adjust this order in consultation with the Fire Marshal and OEM accordingly.

Please help us by ceasing all outdoor burning until further notice.