NC Forest Service points statewide ban on open burning

The N.C.. Forestry Service has issued a statewide ban on all open burning due to an increased risk of wildfires.

The ban begins at 6 p.m. Saturday, March 28, and remains in effect until further notice.

In announcing the ban, the Forestry Service pointed out that the entire state is under drought conditions. The weather forecast calls for strong winds and little rainfall for the next several days.

“With drought severity across the state, forecast fire weather and the potential for limited rainfall, it is critical to reduce the number of new fire starts,” said Agriculture Commissioner Steve Troxler.

The ban prohibits all open burning statewide, regardless of whether a permit was previously issued. Open burning includes leaves, branches and other plant material. It is always illegal to burn non-plant material like trash, tires, newspapers or plastics.

Anyone caught violating the ban is subject to a $100 fine and $183 in court costs. In addition, anyone responsible for setting a fire may be liable for any expenses related to extinguishing the fire.

The ban does not cover fires within 100 feet of an occupied dwelling, but local fire marshals have the authority to issue bans within those 100 feet.

Grills and barbecues are still allowed, as are fire pits within 100 feet of an occupied dwelling. Campfires are covered by the ban, as are fireworks.