EL PASO, Texas (KFOX14/CBS4) — The El Paso County Commissioners Court adopted an Outdoor Business Order and a County Fire Code on Monday.
Proposed by Precinct 1 Commissioner Jackie Butler, these policies are a approach to addressing the need for fire safety in El Paso County, according to the county.
El Paso County is one of the only major counties in Texas without a countywide fire code.
The Outdoor Business Order will require certain outdoor businesses in the county to obtain a license to operate and sets requirements for disposal of flammable liquids, fencing, and the safe arrangement of materials on the property.
Both the fire code and outdoor business order will better equip the Emergency Service Districts to address the dangerous outdoor conditions in many unincorporated areas of the county, officials said.
This is an important step towards protecting residents in unincorporated areas, including Montana Vista, which suffered the effects of the 2023 recycling plant fire. These measures are a result of years of research and collaboration to create a safer community for all El Pasoans,” said Commissioner Jackie Butler. “We look forward to working with the business community to ensure the safety of nearby residents and prevent devastating fires.
The approved measures authorize the El Paso County Attorney’s Office to enforce countywide fire-safety standards—including issuing notices of violation, seeking civil fines of $100–$500 per day, and pursuing injunctive relief against repeat or egregious offenders.
The County Attorney’s Office would work in coordination with the ESDs, the Fire Marshal, and Public Works to ensure due process, consistent enforcement, and timely abatement of hazards.
“The County Fire Code and Outdoor Business Order are vital tools that empower the Office of the County Attorney to ensure safety protocols are effectively enforced throughout El Paso County,” said El Paso County Attorney Christina Sanchez. “Our mission is to protect the safety and well-being of every resident and enhance the quality of life in our community. The policies adopted today strengthen our ability to achieve that mission. I want to thank Commissioner Butler for championing this initiative, the Commissioners Court for investing in this solution, and the dedicated team of lawyers in my office for working collaboratively with county staff and community stakeholders to bring it to life.”
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