With wildfire activity on the rise due to dry conditions, the N.C. Forest Service has issued a statewide ban on all open burning, effective 8 a.m. Friday, March 21, until further notice. All previously issued burning permits are now canceled, and no new permits will be granted during the ban.

N.C. Agriculture Commissioner Steve Troxler emphasized the urgency of the decision, warning that the risk of fast-spreading fires is too high to ignore.

“It is spring wildfire season in North Carolina, and we are seeing increased fire activity due to dry conditions,” Troxler said. “This burn ban is necessary to protect lives, property, and our forests. We urge everyone to comply until conditions improve.”

The ban applies to all 100 counties, prohibiting open burning regardless of whether a permit was previously issued. Violators could face a $100 fine plus $183 in court costs and may also be held financially responsible for any damage or firefighting expenses caused by an illegal fire.

The burn ban does not apply to fires within 100 feet of an occupied home, though local fire marshals may implement additional restrictions in those areas. The N.C. Forest Service, local fire departments, and law enforcement agencies are actively enforcing the ban.

Officials will continue monitoring conditions, and updates will be provided as necessary. Residents with questions can contact their N.C. Forest Service county ranger, county fire marshal’s office, or visit this website for more information.