Residents across North Carolina’s mountainous and coastal regions can now resume controlled outdoor fires after the U.S. Forest Service lifted open burning restrictions on the Pisgah, Nantahala, Uwharrie and Croatan National Forests at 8 a.m. Wednesday, April 2. The statewide move follows recent precipitation that reduced the immediate threat of wildfire, aligning federal and state actions. Officials, however, caution that spring fire dangers remain, especially as temperatures warm and wind patterns shift. The lifted ban does not apply to fires within 100 feet of occupied dwellings.
According to an official account from the U.S. Forest Service, widespread rainfall improved moisture levels across key areas, allowing firefighting crews to advance containment efforts on several active wildfires. Meanwhile, burn permits are again available through authorized agents or online. A directive states that all permits issued before the March 21 statewide ban were canceled, so residents must obtain valid replacements. Officials say county ordinances still apply, including prohibitions on open burning in certain municipalities.
Multiple wildfires had prompted the bans in late March. The Rattlesnake Branch Fire, located in the Pisgah National Forest near Cruso, measured 1,851 acres at the time the statewide ban ended and was reported at 24% containment. In Swain County, the Alarka Five Fire reached 1,575 acres and 80% containment. Crews continue to bolster containment lines, helped by higher humidity levels and rainfall. Details appear at highlighted firefighting efforts.
A statement from North Carolina’s agricultural leadership underscored the importance of these weather changes. “We’ve received some well-timed, much-needed rain over the last couple days which has helped reduce fire danger,” said Agriculture Commissioner Steve Troxler. His office added that while the statewide ban was dropped, citizens should remain vigilant when conducting any open burning. More information on the announcement is available at documents about the lifting.
Local ordinances may still prohibit burning near residential areas, including city-specific rules like those in Sanford. The USDA advises residents to verify municipal codes before lighting outdoor fires. Widely accepted guidelines highlight the benefits of building flames in rock-lined rings, clearing flammable materials from the immediate area, and thoroughly drowning embers with water and stirring them.
Indoor and outdoor hospitality sites, including campgrounds and RV parks, often implement formal wildfire preparedness plans tailored to local risks. Many operators designate evacuation routes, equip on-site fire suppression tools and conduct regular drills to ensure a swift response under changing conditions. Keeping vegetation trimmed near campsites can reduce potential fuel sources around important structures.
Posting signage that reiterates safe burning practices helps guests and staff remain mindful of weather changes. By reminding visitors to extinguish fires completely and avoid restricted activities, property managers reinforce consistent protection during this transitional period. The reopening of federal lands for recreational burning may still leave some visitors uncertain about ongoing risks.
Clear communication channels, such as email newsletters or text alerts, can inform guests about local burn regulations, permit requirements, and weather advisories before they arrive. A concise reference guide at check-in also centralizes vital information, including distance guidelines near structures or any remaining local prohibitions. This approach can bolster awareness and cooperation.
Studies that track notification programs suggest that proactive alerts improve compliance with fire restrictions. A survey from the National Park Service indicated that automated messages significantly increased adherence to official guidelines. A separate report from KOA noted that pre-arrival notices reduced unauthorized campfires. These findings appear at observed compliance gains and documented significant drops, respectively.
In Colorado, a collaborative effort among RV parks showed how multilingual communications lowered wildfire incidents. The National Association of RV Parks & Campgrounds covered that initiative at shared prevention methods. Campground owners there reported that timely instructions, distributed before check-in, created a stronger culture of responsibility among visitors.
The U.S. Forest Service continues to recommend caution since weather patterns can shift abruptly. Campfires, stove fires and other outdoor burns are permitted under standard rules, but local rangers or fire marshals can confirm whether additional restrictions remain in place. Spring conditions and increased winds can rapidly dry fuels, heightening the chance of unexpected flare-ups.
Residents and travelers alike should stay aware of local ordinances, especially regarding the policy that excludes fires within 100 feet of occupied dwellings. The newly available burn permits do not replace the need for vigilance. Careful planning of any outdoor burning and monitoring of changing forecasts can help communities adapt and keep recreation safe in the weeks ahead.