State burn ban lifted for all North Carolina counties, Forest Service says
RALEIGH, N.C. (WTVD) -- The N.C. Forest Service said Thursday that it will lift the ban on all open burning statewide effecting Friday.
The ban, which went into effect across North Carolina on March 28 was lifted for 81 counties on Sunday.
Effective at 8 a.m. Friday, the ban will be lifted for the remaining counties: Alamance, Anson, Cabarrus, Chatham, Davidson, Davie, Forsyth, Gaston, Guilford, Iredell, Mecklenburg, Montgomery, Moore, Randolph, Rockingham, Rowan, Stanly, Stokes and Union counties.
"With the additional precipitation received this week, fire danger has improved for the western Piedmont, Triad and foothills," said Agriculture Commissioner Steve Troxler. "Still, we have a long way to go with drought recovery. While drought alone isn't a hazardous forest fire condition, it can be a stressor that contributes to fires burning longer, more intensely and being more difficult to control. Responsible, safe burning is critical all the time, but especially during peak wildfire season. Pay attention to weather conditions and check fire danger before burning. Get a valid burn permit. Have a water source, shovel, rake and phone nearby. Stay with your fire until it is completely out and cold to the touch. Your N.C. Forest Service county ranger is there to help you know when and how to burn safely and in accordance with the law. Lean on those county rangers for that guidance."
The lifting of the ban does not apply to fires started within 100 feet of an occupied dwelling. The local fire marshal has the authority to issue or lift a burn ban within that distance.
NOTE: Video is from a previous report.
