Outdoor Burning Permits & Guidelines
Obtaining Your Burn Permit
In North Carolina, an active permit is required for most outdoor burning. These permits are issued free of charge by the NC Forest Service. Obtaining a permit does not relieve you of the responsibility of ensuring your fire is safe and properly attended.
How to apply: Permits can be obtained online 24/7 or through authorized local agents during business hours.
Know the Rules Before You Ignite
- Check the Weather: Never burn on windy days or during periods of low humidity.
- Stay Attended: Fires must be attended by a competent adult at all times until fully extinguished.
- Clearance: Maintain a 10-foot cleared area around your burn pile.
- Legal Materials: Only natural vegetation (brush, leaves, limbs) may be burned. It is illegal to burn trash, plastic, or treated lumber.
Burn Bans & Restrictions
During periods of extreme drought or high fire danger, the Alleghany County Fire Marshal or the State of North Carolina may issue a mandatory burn ban. All permits are void during an active ban. Always check the alert banner on our homepage or the NC Forest Service website before burning.
EMERGENCY CONTACT: If a controlled burn escapes your control, do not wait. Call 911 immediately.
Questions About Safety?
Not sure if it's safe to burn today? Contact Station 9 on our non-emergency line for guidance.