Statewide Burn Ban Now In Effect
Due to increased fire risk, the N.C. Forest Service has issued a ban on all open burning and has canceled all burning permits statewide effective 6:00 PM on March 28, 2026.
Under North Carolina law, the ban prohibits all open burning in the affected counties, regardless of whether a permit was previously issued. The issuance of any new permits has also been suspended until the ban is lifted. Any person responsible for setting a fire may be liable for any expenses related to extinguishing the fire.
The McDowell County Fire Marshal's Office has also issued a ban for all open burning within 100 feet of a structure in McDowell County. The NCFS burn ban prohibits all open burning greater than 100 feet from a structure. Therefore, until the ban is lifted, no open burning is allowed. Immediately report all fires to 911.
