This bill enacts R.S. 40:1602.1, granting parishes and municipalities the authority to declare temporary burn bans during hazardous fire conditions. The governing authorities can issue these bans through ordinances, resolutions, or emergency proclamations, and they must provide public notice through official channels. The bans can prohibit various forms of open burning, including yard debris and construction debris, while allowing exceptions for agricultural burning, prescribed burns, and contained cooking or recreational fires.

The bill establishes civil penalties for violations of the burn bans, with fines escalating from $500 for a first offense to $2,500 for subsequent offenses. Additionally, individuals whose violations result in significant property damage or damage to critical infrastructure face criminal penalties, including fines and potential imprisonment. Offenders may also be liable for restitution and the costs of fire suppression incurred by local authorities. Enforcement of these provisions can be carried out by local law enforcement, fire department personnel, and municipal code enforcement officers.