For Immediate Release: Montgomery County Issues Local Burn Ban on Open Burning Effective March 30, 2026
Montgomery County, NC: Effective at 2:00 P.M. Monday, March 30, 2026, Montgomery County Fire Marshals Office has issued a local burn ban on ALL open burning in all areas of Montgomery County (NC Fire Code 307.1.1). Our office will be also implementing a countywide burn ban that prohibits open burning within 100’ of structures. The burning ban does not apply to charcoal or gas grills provided fire safety precautions are taken.
A State burn ban was issued by North Carolina Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services due to hazardous forest fire conditions, using authority under the law (NC G.S. 106-944 & 106-946) to cancel all burning permits and prohibit all open burning.
Statement From NC Agriculture & Consumer Services
“It is spring 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 wildfires starting and spreading quickly. Our top priority is always to protect lives, property and forestland across the state. It is imperative that folks adhere to this burn ban until further notice.
Under North Carolina law, the ban prohibits all open burning in the affected counties, regardless of whether a permit was previously issued. The issuance of any new permits has also been suspended until the ban is lifted. Anyone violating the burn ban faces a $100 fine plus $183 court costs. Any person responsible for setting a fire may be liable for any expenses related to extinguishing the fire.
The N.C. Forest Service and Montgomery County Fire Marshal’s office will continue to monitor conditions. The burning ban will remain in place until further notice. For questions about the burn ban please contact the Montgomery County Office at 910-576-4221.
Burn Ban Notice - Montgomery County