EL PASO, Texas (KTSM) — El Paso County Commissioner for Precinct 1, Jackie Butler, is proposing a countywide fire code and outdoor business order after multiple outdoor fires within the last five years, including the recycling plant fire in Montana Vista that happened in September 2023.
The proposals will be presented during a Commissioners Court public hearing on Monday, Oct. 20, before any final decisions are made regarding their adoption.
El Paso County has experienced 14 fires at outdoor businesses since 2019, according to the news release by Butler’s Office. These businesses include salvage yards, scrap metal facilities and recycling plants.
“El Paso County is one of the only major counties in Texas without a unified fire code. That current system leaves our Emergency Services Districts (ESDs) and our public works teams with uneven tools to prevent and enforce safety standards,” Butler said. “The 2023 Montana Vista fire made clear that current mechanisms are not enough. Our two-part solution—adopting a county fire code and establishing an outdoor business order—will help protect all residents, especially those in unincorporated areas.”
The fire code will set countywide safety operation standards and unify enforcement systems. The outdoor code will require certain businesses to obtain licenses and adhere to regulations for disposing of flammable liquids, fencing, and safe material arrangement on their properties, according to the news release.
Butler’s Office added that these proposed items reflect years of research and collaboration among agencies aimed at addressing these hazards.
“People living outside city limits deserve the same clarity and protection that cities provide. Our ESDs have been on the front lines, and I’m grateful for their service. By setting countywide standards and enforcement, we’re partnering to provide the structure and resources needed to strengthen prevention and response to fires that threaten public health and safety,” Butler added.
If the fire code and outdoor business are adopted, Butler’s Office said the El Paso County Attorney’s Office would have the authority to enforce countywide fire-safety standards. The enforcement would include issuing notices of violations, seeking civil fines of $100-$500 per day and pursuing injunctive relief against repeat or “egregious” offenders.
Additionally, the County Attorney’s Office would work in collaboration with the ESDs, the Fire Marshals and Public Works to ensure due process, consistent enforcement, and reduce the hazards.
Residents, business owners and first responders are encouraged to participate the public meeting. Written comments and requests to speak can be submitted in advance. To submit your response, you can contact the Butler’s Office at (915) 273-3594.
Butler oversees Precinct 1 of El Paso County, which includes “everything north of I-10 and Loop 375 from McRae to Montana Vista and Hueco Tanks, as well as the majority of Fort Bliss, east of Railroad Drive,” according to her page on the County’s website.
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