North Carolina Lifts Burn Ban in 81 Counties Despite Severe Drought
Officials have announced the lifting of the statewide outdoor open burn ban in 81 of North Carolina’s 100 counties, effective immediately Sunday morning. The ban, in effect since March 28, remains active in 19 counties as severe drought conditions continue to threaten fire safety across the state.
Agriculture Commissioner Steve Troxler confirmed that recent rainfall has eased fire danger enough to allow limited outdoor burning, though the overall risk remains high. “The recent rainfall has provided some relief and has moderated fire danger enough for us to lift the ban on open burning in 81 counties,” said Troxler, now serving his sixth term. However, Troxler stressed caution remains critical during the spring wildfire season, warning conditions can swiftly deteriorate without more consistent precipitation.
Widespread Drought Poses Ongoing Threat
Despite some easing, North Carolina endures an escalating drought emergency. The latest release from the U.S. Drought Monitor reveals that 54.9% of the state is now classified under extreme to exceptional drought, a sharp increase from 38.1% just a week earlier. Meanwhile, nearly the entire state (95.5%) continues to experience severe to exceptional drought, with 100% enduring at least moderate drought conditions.
This broad drought footprint underscores persistent challenges for fire and water management across the region. Troxler emphasized the importance of vigilance: “We still need rain to move us forward with drought recovery, improving soil moisture and water levels.”
Counties Still Under Burn Ban
The burn ban remains firmly in place for 19 counties including Alamance, Anson, Cabarrus, Chatham, Davidson, Davie, Forsyth, Gaston, Guilford, Iredell, Mecklenburg, Montgomery, Moore, Randolph, Rockingham, Rowan, Stanly, Stokes, and Union. Residents in these areas must continue to refrain from all outdoor open burning until further notice.
For the 81 counties where burning is now permissible, strict safety protocols apply. Burn permits became available Sunday at 8 a.m., and residents must secure a valid permit before burning. Troxler urges caution: “Be extremely vigilant with any outdoor burning if you’re in one of the 81 counties no longer under the state-issued ban. Make sure you have a valid burn permit, tools and a water source, and stay with your fire.”
Local Enforcement and Safety Measures
The state burn ban does not override local fire marshal authority within 100 feet of any occupied dwelling. Local officials retain full discretion to impose stricter rules or bans in these sensitive areas. Troxler reminds all residents to handle ignition sources such as machinery and motorized equipment with extreme care during the drought.
“If you’re in one of the 19 counties still under the state-issued burn ban, be patient and hold off on burning. We need more rain in your area to lift the ban. With the persistent drought, it’s important for all of us to use extreme caution when handling potential ignition sources such as machinery and motorized equipment,”
Troxler added, urging residents to consult with their N.C. Forest Service county ranger’s office for guidance and best practices.
What to Watch For
The evolving drought and fire conditions demand close monitoring in the coming days and weeks. Residents and authorities alike brace for potentially shifting fire risks with fluctuating weather. Additional rainfall would be necessary to lift bans in the remaining counties and begin more widespread drought recovery.
For Alaskans and U.S. readers, the North Carolina fire and drought situation underscores how quickly wildfire risks can surge even following recent rains. It serves as a critical reminder to stay alert, prepared, and informed about local burn restrictions during vulnerable seasons.
Stay tuned for updates as conditions develop and fire agencies issue new guidance to protect communities throughout this extended dry spell.
