The statewide ban on open burning remains in effect until further notice despite weekend rainThe N.C. Forest Service has lifted a ban on all open burning for 81 counties effective 8 a.m. Sunday, May 3. The statewide ban on open burning went into effect March 28 due to hazardous forest fire conditions, and the ban remains in effect for Alamance, Anson, Cabarrus, Chatham, Davidson, Davie, Forsyth, Gaston, Guilford, Iredell, Mecklenburg, Montgomery, Moore, Randolph, Rockingham, Rowan, Stanly, Stokes and Union counties until further notice. Read news release.
As of 8 a.m. Sunday, May 3, burn permits are available in the counties no longer under the state’s ban on open burning. Residents in those counties can obtain a burn permit from any authorized permitting agent or online at https://apps.ncagr.gov/burnpermits/. All burn permits granted before the statewide burn ban were canceled when the ban became effective. To legally burn in the counties no longer under the state’s ban, a valid permit must be obtained.
Prepare for Wildfire. Prevent Wildfire.
Being prepared for wildfire is more important than ever, especially in Western North Carolina where Hurricane Helene left more than 800,000 acres of downed timber across our communities.
North Carolina sees more than 4,500 wildfires annually, with nearly 99% caused by human activities like backyard burning and campfires.
With more fuel on the ground, do your part to prevent and prepare for wildfire. Follow recommended best practices for safe outdoor burning. Take the time to harden your home and create defensible space in the home ignition zone in as little time as a few days.
Prepare Your Home and Community for Wildfire
Prepare for Wildfire: Tips to Protect Your Home
Prepare for Wildfire: Protect Your Deck from Wildfire
Prepare for Wildfire: Create Defensible Space Quickly
Prepare for Wildfire: Trimming Branches Reduces Risk
Prepare for Wildfire: Store Woodpiles at a Safe Distance
#ResistWildfireNC
Wildfire Mitigation in Western North Carolina
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Wildfire Risk in North Carolina
In 2026, wildfire activity in North Carolina has been intense with more than 3,500 wildfires already impacting our communities. On average, North Carolina faces more than 4,500 wildfires annually, with nearly 99% caused by human activities like backyard burning and campfires. We need YOUR help to prevent wildfires:
1. Never burn on dry, windy days, and never leave fires unattended.
2. Keep a water source, shovel, rake and phone nearby.
3. Ensure you have a valid burn permit.
4. Share these best practices with others.
You're our best defense against wildfires. When in doubt, contact your N.C. Forest Service county ranger. Spread prevention, not wildfire.