With drought conditions extending toward the Foothills, fire officials are concerned about campfires and other sources of open flame across the state, especially in the 26 counties currently under a state burn ban that remains in effect until further notice.
“Campfires are prohibited in the burn-ban counties, and with a holiday weekend and many people moving around outdoors, we are prepared for that to be a challenge the next several days,” said Jeff Burns, head of the N.C. Forest Service law enforcement division. “It’s important to be informed and situationally aware because campfires can come at a price during a burn ban.”
Individuals found to be in violation of a state burn ban are subject to a $100 fine plus $183 court costs. Any person responsible for setting a fire may be liable for any expenses related to putting that fire out as well as any property damage that results from an escaped fire.
Due to fire danger and the state’s ban on open burning, campfire restrictions are in effect for many popular destinations in eastern North Carolina. For information about campfire restrictions implemented by the Croatan National Forest effective May 28 and until further notice, visit www.fs.usda.gov/alerts/nfsnc/alerts-notices/?aid=66205. For information about North Carolina state parks affected by the 26-county burn ban, visit www.ncparks.gov. Before burning a backyard campfire within 100 feet of an occupied dwelling, check with your local fire marshal about local ordinances or restrictions that may apply.
To track daily wildfire activity and emergency response in North Carolina, visit https://www.ncforestservice.gov/fire_control/sit_report.htm.
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