May 3, 2026
The NC Forest Service and the Transylvania County fire marshal have lifted the outdoor burning ban in effect since March 28. NC Forest Service
Following this weekend’s brief bouts of rain coupled with higher humidity levels, the statewide and local bans on open outdoor burning have been lifted in Transylvania County.
Saturday evening, North Carolina Agriculture and Consumer Services Commissioner Steve Troxler rescinded the state’s outdoor burning ban that was in place for 81 counties, including Transylvania, that had been in place since March 28.
Sunday morning, Transylvania County Fire Marshal Scott Justus followed suit and announced open burning of leaves, branches and vegetation in recreational campfires, bonfires, and outdoor fireplaces is once again allowed.
In a news release, the fire marshal stressed that any open burning must be constantly monitored and never left unattended and it is still illegal to burn trash, lumber, tires, plastics, and non-vegetative materials without a permit.
Open burning permits may be obtained online from ncforestservice.gov or from an NC Forest Service permit agent.