Burn Ban Remains in Effect Across Western North Carolina Amid Ongoing Fire Risks

As of April 1, 2025, Western North Carolina, along with the entire state, continues to grapple with a stringent burn ban that shows no signs of lifting. Implemented by the N.C. Forest Service due to heightened fire risks, the ban on all open burning took effect at 8 a.m. on Friday, March 21, and remains in place across all 100 counties, including those in the western region, until further notice.

The decision to maintain the statewide prohibition stems from persistent dry conditions and critical fire weather, which have fueled an uptick in wildfire activity this spring. “It is spring wildfire season in North Carolina, and we are seeing wildfire activity increase due to dry conditions,” said Agriculture Commissioner Steve Troxler when the ban was first announced. He emphasized that the measure is essential to curb the risk of fires igniting and spreading rapidly, with the protection of lives, property, and forestland as the top priority.

Western North Carolina has been particularly hard-hit by wildfires in recent weeks. Significant blazes, such as the Old Hwy 16 #1 Fire in Wilkes County (200 acres, 50% contained), the Iron Circle Fire in Burke County (160 acres, 50% contained), and the Caleb Lane Fire in Caldwell County (50 acres, 0% contained), continue to challenge firefighting efforts. These fires, combined with others like the Black Cove, Deep Woods, and Fish Hook fires in Polk County, underscore the volatile conditions plaguing the region. The abundance of downed timber from Hurricane Helene last September has only worsened the situation, providing ample fuel for flames.

Under state law, the burn ban prohibits all forms of open burning—such as burning leaves, branches, or other plant material—regardless of whether a permit was previously issued. Even fires within 100 feet of an occupied dwelling, which are typically under local jurisdiction, have been strongly discouraged, with many counties like Pitt and Carteret opting to ban them outright. Violators face a $100 fine plus $183 in court costs, and those responsible for starting a fire could be liable for suppression expenses.

The N.C. Forest Service has reported that 99% of wildfires in North Carolina are human-caused, making the burn ban a critical tool to eliminate preventable ignitions. “This burn ban, we’re hoping to eliminate that factor and hopefully see a reduction in overall wildfire starts,” said Philip Jackson, the agency’s Public Information Officer, in a recent statement. However, with no significant rainfall in the forecast and conditions yet to improve, residents are urged to remain vigilant.

For Western North Carolinians, the ban affects not only yard maintenance but also recreational activities like campfires, which are prohibited at all state parks. Campers are advised to use portable gas stoves or grills, though charcoal use depends on local ordinances. The N.C. Forest Service continues to monitor conditions and will provide updates as they develop. In the meantime, residents with questions are encouraged to contact their local N.C. Forest Service county ranger or fire marshal’s office.

As the region braces for an uncertain fire season, the message is clear: no outdoor burning of any kind is permitted until the threat subsides.