The Open Burning Rule is one of North Carolina’s oldest air quality regulations, first adopted in 1971. The rule prohibits much outdoor burning and sets conditions for allowable fires. Under the rule, it is always illegal to burn trash and other non-vegetative materials. Leaves, branches, and other plant growth can be burned under certain conditions. Violators can be fined up to $25,000 or more. (Source: NC DEQ)
The North Carolina Forest Service provides an online application process to obtain a Forestry Burn Permit. Access the online application here.
Use the links below to access more information on open burning from NC Department of Environmental Quality, Division of Air Quality:
To report a smoke issue, please call your regional Division of Air Quality office at (919) 791-4200 or the Open Burning Hotline at (877) OPEN-BURN [(877) 673-6287)].