North Wake News

The North Carolina Forest Service has announced the lifting of a statewide ban on open burning. The ban was initially imposed on March 21 due to dangerous forest fire conditions across North Carolina. The ban was lifted at 8 a.m. on Wednesday, April 2.

Agriculture Commissioner Steve Troxler stated, “We’ve received some well-timed, much-needed rain over the last couple days which has helped reduce fire danger, allowing us to lift burn ban restrictions across the state.” However, he cautioned that because North Carolina is still experiencing spring wildfire season, recent incidents, particularly in Western North Carolina, serve as reminders of the need for safe and responsible burning practices.

The lifting of the ban does not affect fires within 100 feet of an occupied dwelling, as local fire marshals retain the authority to impose such restrictions within this zone.

Burn permits are now available statewide. They can be obtained from authorized agents or online. Permits that were issued before the statewide ban were canceled, so residents must acquire a valid permit to proceed with open burning.

For further information or specific inquiries related to particular counties, residents are encouraged to contact their local N.C. Forest Service county ranger or fire marshal’s office. Contact details can be found on the North Carolina Forest Service website.