CHARLOTTE, N.C. (QUEEN CITY NEWS) — In response to the statewide burn ban, the Charlotte Fire Department Fire Marshal’s Office has issued additional local restrictions to reduce the risk of wildfires within city limits.
Effective immediately, open burning is prohibited in the city of Charlotte, including within 100 feet of an occupied dwelling.
“While the state’s burn ban restricts open burning across all 100 counties, it does not cover fires within 100 feet of occupied dwellings,” said Charlotte Fire Marshal Kevin Miller. “Given the increased risk of fire, we are extending those restrictions locally to ensure consistency and safety across our community.”
Under the local burn ban:
- All open burning is prohibited, including recreational fires, bonfires, fire pits and warming fires.
- Only cooking fires are allowed, but they must be:
- Contained within a grill or outdoor cooking device
- Attended at all time
- Accompanied by a readily available means of extinguishment (fire extinguishers, hose, etc.)
This burn ban remains in effect until further notice and applies to all areas within city limits. Violations of the burn ban may result in a $100 fine and $183 in court costs.
Individuals found responsible for a fire may also be held liable for the cost of firefighting efforts.
The Charlotte Fire Marshal’s Office urges all residents to exercise extreme caution and held prevent wildfire risk.