NC burn ban lifted statewide as rain improves wildfire conditions

The North Carolina Forest Service on Wednesday lifted a burn ban for all counties as wildfire conditions improve in the western portion of the state.

The ban was lifted on all open burning effective 8 a.m. on April 2. The ban went into effect on March 21.

Steve Troxler, the state’s agriculture commissioner, credits the recent rain for improving conditions.

As of 4 p.m. Tuesday, WCNC Charlotte reports the Black Cove Complex fire in Polk County was 97% contained after burning over 3,500 acres. All evacuation orders in Polk County have been lifted as crews were able to contain the Black Cove fire, WCNC reports.

“We’ve received some well-timed, much-needed rain over the last couple days which has helped reduce fire danger, allowing us to lift burn ban restrictions across the state,” Troxler said. “However, we are still in the midst of spring wildfire season and our recent wildfire activity, especially in Western North Carolina, is a reminder to remain vigilant about burning safely and responsibly.”

People are not allowed to start fires within 100 feet of an occupied dwelling

Burn permits are available again statewide. Residents can obtain a burn permit from any authorized permitting agent or online at https://apps.ncagr.gov/burnpermits/.