SOUTHEASTERN N.C. — A burn ban was issued over the weekend for all open burning in North Carolina, due to dry conditions heightening wildfire risks.
According to the N.C. Forest Service, all open burning is prohibited and all permits are cancelled until further notice. No new permits will be issued and the ban includes burning leaves, branches, and other plant materials.
READ MORE: 15 acres in Pender County burn in woods fire
The issuance came over the weekend as wildfires in the western region of the state continued, in McDowell, Clay and Mitchell counties. One fire in McDowell County was 175 acres and 0% contained as of Monday morning.
“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,” Agriculture Commissioner Steve Troxler said in a release issued on Saturday, March 28. “Vegetative fuels will dry rapidly, and with the amount of fuel loading in the mountains and drought impacts statewide, a burn ban for all 100 counties is necessary to reduce the number of wildfires across our landscape. Please follow this burn ban to help reduce the risk for everyone.”
Violations can result in a $100 fine plus court costs, with the liable party also held accountable for fire suppression costs should incidents lead to fire spread.
The ban does not include fires started within 100 feet of an occupied dwelling. Municipal and county fire marshals have the authority to issue bans in those areas. Multiple local agencies have done so, including in Brunswick County, Belville and Leland, as well as New Hanover and Pender counties.
Any open flame burning, such as at campfires or in fire pits, are included in the ban.
Local fire departments and law enforcement officers are assisting enforcing the burn ban, the N.C. Forest Service noted.
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