The North Carolina Forest Service lifted its burn ban from the remaining 19 counties where it was still in effect.
The burn ban lifted at 8 a.m. Friday for Alamance, Anson, Cabarrus, Chatham, Davidson, Davie, Forsyth, Gaston, Guilford, Iredell, Mecklenburg, Montgomery, Moore, Randolph, Rockingham, Rowan, Stanly, Stokes and Union counties.
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The ban, which went into effect statewide March 28 due to hazardous forest fire conditions, was lifted for 81 other counties on Sunday.
“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.”
The lifting of the state’s burn ban does not apply to fires started within 100 feet of a home. The local fire marshal has the authority to issue or lift a burn ban within those 100 feet.
As of 8 a.m. Friday, May 8, burn permits are available statewide. Residents can obtain a burn permit from any authorized permitting agent or online.
All burn permits granted before the statewide burn ban were canceled when the ban became effective. To legally burn, a valid permit must be obtained.