North Carolina Forest Service lifts burn ban in several counties

RALEIGH, N.C. (WWAY)– The North Carolina Forest Service has lifted its statewide burn ban for 81 counties, effective 8 a.m. Sunday. The ban was put in place March 28 due to dangerous fire conditions.

Officials say recent rainfall has lowered the fire risk in those areas—but 19 counties, mostly in central North Carolina, remain under the ban until further notice.

Agriculture Commissioner Steve Troxler urges residents to stay cautious, noting the state is still in peak wildfire season and drought conditions persist.

“We still need rain to move us forward with drought recovery, improving soil moisture and water levels. Be extremely vigilant with any outdoor burning if you’re in one of the 81 counties no longer under the state-issued ban,” said Troxler.

Burn permits are now available again in counties where the ban has been lifted, but residents must have a valid permit and follow all safety guidelines.

The following counties in the are have lifted the burn ban:

Pender County

Bladen County

Anyone with questions should contact their local Forest Service office or fire marshal.