The North Carolina Division of Forest Resources (NCDFR) is initiating a state wide burning ban and canceling all burning permits becoming effective at noon on Tuesday, August 21, 2007. This has become necessary due to dry weather conditions and an increase of fire activity State Wide.

Under North Carolina law (G.S. 113-60.25 and 113.60.27), the ban prohibits all open burning throughout the State, regardless of whether a permit was issued. This ban does not apply to fires burning within 100 feet of an occupied home.

NCDFR officials decided to issue the burning ban because of dry weather, and an increased number of fires and NCDFR employees already fighting fire throughout the state. The ban will remain in effect until further notice.

For more information, contact Chris Carlson at 919-733-2162x262 or cell 919-210-5013, or Brian Haines at cell 919-218-9728.