McKINNEY, TEXAS (Aug. 9, 2012) – Due to the burn ban issued by Collin County, the City of McKinney Fire Department is instituting a burn ban and hot work permit program for those performing hot work or cutting and welding outdoors.

There will be no fee for these permits, which are intended to reinforce the importance of heightened awareness for safety during hot and dry conditions. Those found performing this work without a permit will be subject to citations. Permits will be required until Collin County lifts the burn ban, and the program will be evaluated at that time to determine if it will remain in place.

The burn ban issued along with the hot work permitting program pertains to all trench burning and recreational fires. Recreational fires are those used for warmth, pleasure, religious, ceremonial or other purposes. This includes the use of a fire pit or campfire. During the time the burn ban is in affect, the only exception will be a barbeque grill or pit used exclusively for cooking.

Permits for hot work will be issued at the Public Safety Building, located at 2200 Taylor Burk Dr., between 8 a.m. and 5 a.m. For more information, contact the McKinney Fire Marshal's Office at 972-547-2879 or visit www.mckinneyfire.org.