View a map that identifies where burning is and is not allowed: https://www.ncagr.gov/.../nc-forest-service-map.../open

Again, in a state where the leading cause of wildfire is careless debris burning, we cannot overstress the importance of responsible and safe burning in areas where the state’s ban no longer applies.

Before burning yard debris:

Check for some key conditions. When vegetation is dry, humidity is low and the wind is moving, even small fires can get out of control quickly. If you see these conditions, it’s a good day to let burning wait. Wait for better conditions.

If conditions aren’t dry or windy and there are no burning restrictions in your area, get a valid burn permit online or in person from a burn permitting agent in your area.

Be ready. Have a water source, shovel, rake and phone nearby.

When we say stay with your fire, we mean stay with your fire. Don’t leave it until it is cold to the touch.

When in doubt, contact your N.C. Forest Service county ranger’s office for guidance.

State-issued bans on open burning do not apply to fires started within 100 feet of an occupied dwelling. The local fire marshal has authority to issue or lift a local burn ban within those 100 feet. We recommend checking with your local fire marshal’s office or website before assuming there are no burning restrictions in effect for the area within 100 feet of an occupied dwelling.

Get burn permits, wildfire prevention and risk reduction tips, and more: ncforestservice.gov.