Last Updated on March 24, 2026 7:54 am
Fire danger remains high, even extreme in some areas, statewide, according to the North Carolina Forest Service. Fires can start almost immediately and easily from all causes. Fires can spread rapidly and intensify quickly. Spot fires are a constant danger. Spot fires are new, separate fires ignited outside the main fire perimeter and primarily caused by burning embers.
Discard cigarette butts, matches and other flammable materials in appropriate containers. Use extreme caution when handling potential ignition sources such as machinery and farm equipment.
When vegetation is dry, humidity is low and the wind is moving, fire danger is high and wildfire risk increases.
Before burning outdoors, use these common-sense resources:
- Check fire danger in your area: climate.ncsu.edu/fire
- Check the weather for your area, especially wind conditions: weather.gov
- Contact your local NCFS county ranger's office for guidance: ncforestservice.gov/contacts
Are there any state-issued burn bans currently in effect?
Currently, there are no state-issued burn bans in effect. While you may have local restrictions on open burning in your area, there is no state-issued burn ban at this time.
Can I burn outdoors?
With a valid burning permit, yes, but just because you can burn doesn't mean you should burn. Outdoor burning is strongly discouraged until conditions improve.
For more information, visit PreventWildfireNC.org.
The N.C. Forest Service is a division of the N.C. Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services.
