The 2024 International Fire Code (IFC), as amended by the City of Austin, requires that businesses that store or use specific quantities or types of hazardous materials aboveground obtain an Aboveground Hazardous Materials Permit. The chemical quantities requiring a permit can be very small, if a highly toxic, flammable, or reactive chemical is present. Likewise, less hazardous chemicals do not require a permit unless much larger quantities are present.
Fireworks are illegal to possess or use in the City of Austin unless a permit has been issued for a professional display. These permits are issued by the AFD Special Events only if several requirements are met. Contact afdspecialevents@austintexas.gov for details. Requests for aerial fireworks must be submitted at least 30 days prior to scheduled event. Requests for flame effect, open flame performances, etc., must be submitted at least 14 days prior to scheduled event.
The Austin Fire Department (AFD) supports the use of prescribed burns for forest and range management, ecological restoration, and training purposes where and when appropriate. It can be an effective tool for risk reduction and restoring ecosystem function when conducted by qualified and trained fire management personnel.