As firefighting crews from across our state continue to battle the massive Grindstone wildfire, the North Carolina Forest Service has now issued a complete statewide ban on all outdoor burning.
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According to a press release from the department, anyone caught burning leaves, branches or other plant material, trash, lumber, tires, newspapers, plastics or other nonvegetative material, anywhere in the state, will face a $100 fine plus $183 court costs and any expenses related to extinguishing the fire. The state-wide ban does not affect the use of an outdoor barbecue or grill.
“It is fall wildfire season in North Carolina, and we are seeing wildfire activity increase due to dry conditions,” said Agriculture Commissioner Steve Troxler. “With these ongoing conditions, a statewide burn ban is necessary to reduce the risk of fires starting and spreading quickly. Our top priority is always to protect lives, property and forestland across the state.”
The ban will remain in effect until further notice.