Statewide Burn Ban Issued in North Carolina Amid Wildfire Threat

NEWPORT, N.C. — The North Carolina Forest Service has implemented a statewide ban on all open burning, effective March 21 at 8 a.m., due to significantly increased wildfire risks across the state. The ban, announced Thursday evening, will remain in effect until further notice.

“It is spring wildfire season in North Carolina, and we are seeing wildfire activity increase due to dry conditions,” Agriculture Commissioner Steve Troxler stated during the announcement. “With these ongoing conditions, a statewide burn ban is necessary to reduce the risk of wildfires starting and spreading quickly. Our top priority is always to protect lives, property, and forestland across the state. It is imperative that folks adhere to this burn ban until further notice.”

The ban prohibits all open burning in the state’s 100 counties, regardless of previously issued permits. Additionally, the North Carolina Forest Service has suspended the issuance of new burning permits until the ban is lifted.

Local law enforcement and fire departments are assisting in enforcing the ban. Although the statewide ban applies broadly, it does not extend to fires started within 100 feet of an occupied dwelling. In such instances, local fire marshals retain the authority to issue their own burn bans.

In light of the ban, Brunswick, Carteret, and New Hanover counties announced localized restrictions on burning within 100 feet of any structures. Violators of the burn ban could face a $100 fine and additional court costs totaling $183. Moreover, individuals responsible for starting a fire may be liable for any associated extinguishing costs.

As conditions worsen, the North Carolina Forest Service is actively monitoring wildfire activity. As of the last report, the state’s drought monitor indicated that many areas are experiencing dry to moderate drought conditions. Notably, in Polk County, officials reported that one of three active wildfires has burned over 500 acres in the Green River Game Land area, with the blaze 0% contained as of Friday morning.

To ensure safety and compliance, residents seeking more information regarding the burn ban or specific questions related to their counties are encouraged to contact their local N.C. Forest Service county ranger or fire marshal’s office.