Last Updated on April 14, 2026 4:41 pm
Fire restrictions are now in effect at both the state and federal level across North Carolina, as dangerous wildfire conditions show no sign of improving.
Beginning Wednesday, April 15, the U.S. Forest Service is banning all open burning and campfires outside of developed recreation sites on North Carolina's four national forests — the Pisgah, Nantahala, Uwharrie, and Croatan. The federal restriction follows the statewide ban on open burning issued by the state March 28, which remains in effect until further notice.
Since the state burn ban took effect, 554 wildfires have burned more than 2,200 acres across North Carolina. With little rainfall expected over the next seven to ten days, officials say conditions remain dangerous. Agriculture Commissioner Steve Troxler said fires are starting quickly, spreading quickly, and burning intensely under the current combination of persistent drought, warmer temperatures, and low humidity.
Of the 554 wildfires recorded since March 28, only four were caused by lightning. Preliminary data indicates 152 were determined to be human caused, with the remainder pending investigation. Since the ban took effect, 150 citations have been issued for illegal burning.
Under the federal forest restriction, visitors may still use commercially available fuel stoves — such as portable propane camp stoves or covered charcoal grills. Forest Service-provided grills, metal fire rings, and fire pits at developed recreation sites and campgrounds remain available for public use. The restriction applies to building, maintaining, or using any open fire, campfire, or stove fire outside of those designated areas.
Both the state and federal restrictions will remain in place until fire danger conditions improve. Officials urge the public to use extreme caution with farm equipment, mowers, vehicles on dry grass, cigarettes, and anything capable of throwing a spark — activities not covered by the burn ban but still contributing to new fire starts across the state.
Fire danger conditions can be monitored through the N.C. Forest Service fire danger map and fire danger statements, available online.
