ASHEVILLE, N.C. (828newsNOW) — The North Carolina Forest Service issued a ban on all open burning Friday, March 21, because of an increased fire risk across the state.
As conditions worsen in Western North Carolina, the Asheville Fire Marshal’s Office has enacted additional local restrictions to reduce the wildfire risk within city limits.
Effective immediately, open burning is prohibited in Asheville, including within 100 feet of an occupied dwelling.
Under this local burn ban, all burning is prohibited, including:
- Recreational fires
- Bonfires
- Fire pits
- Warming fires
Cooking fires are allowed under the following conditions:
- They must be contained within a grill or outdoor cooking device.
- They must be attended at all times.
- A means of extinguishment, such as a fire extinguisher or hose, must be readily available.
The burn ban will remain in effect until further notice and applies to all areas within city limits. Violations could result in a $500 civil penalty.
Tropical Storm Helene left a lasting impact on Asheville, causing significant tree damage and loss. The city is committed to assisting residents with tree removal and wildfire risk reduction while providing access to valuable resources. For more information, click here.