Carolina Eases Statewide Burn Ban, But 19 Counties Remain Under Restrictions

RALEIGH, N.C. — A statewide ban on outdoor burning in North Carolina has been partially lifted, allowing open burning in most counties while restrictions remain in place for areas still facing significant fire risk.

State officials announced late Saturday that the ban, originally issued March 28 across all 100 counties, has been eased for 81 counties. However, 19 counties remain under a strict burn ban due to ongoing drought conditions and elevated wildfire danger.

Steve Troxler, the state’s agriculture commissioner, said recent rainfall helped reduce fire risk in many areas but warned conditions remain volatile.

“The recent rainfall has provided some relief and has moderated fire danger enough for us to lift the ban on open burning in 81 counties,” Troxler said. “However, we’re still in the thick of spring wildfire season when conditions can change quickly and frequently.”

Despite the partial improvement, drought conditions across the state remain severe. According to the U.S. Drought Monitor, extreme to exceptional drought now covers nearly 55% of the state, a sharp increase from the previous week. Severe drought conditions continue to impact more than 95% of North Carolina, while all areas of the state remain at least moderately dry.

Counties still under the burn ban include Iredell County, along with Alamance, Anson, Cabarrus, Chatham, Davidson, Davie, Forsyth, Gaston, Guilford, Mecklenburg, Montgomery, Moore, Randolph, Rockingham, Rowan, Stanly, Stokes, and Union counties.

Officials noted that even in counties where the ban has been lifted, restrictions still apply. Open burning within 100 feet of an occupied dwelling remains under the authority of local fire marshals. Burn permits resumed availability at 8 a.m. Sunday in counties where burning is now allowed.

Troxler urged residents to remain cautious.

“Be extremely vigilant with any outdoor burning if you’re in one of the 81 counties no longer under the state-issued ban,” he said. “Make sure you have a valid burn permit, tools and a water source, and stay with your fire.”

He added that residents in counties still under the ban should remain patient as officials monitor conditions and await additional rainfall.

“With the persistent drought, it’s important for all of us to use extreme caution when handling potential ignition sources such as machinery and motorized equipment,” Troxler said.

State officials continue to encourage residents to consult their local North Carolina Forest Service offices for guidance as wildfire risks remain elevated across the region.