Cabarrus Fire Marshal issues burn ban
Published on March 21, 2025
Cabarrus County Fire Marshal Jacob Thompson has issued a ban prohibiting burning within 100 feet of a structure in all unincorporated areas of Cabarrus County beginning at 8 a.m. today (March 21, 2025). The ban will last until further notice.
Any previously issued burning permits are now invalid and fires should be extinguished upon the effective date and time of this ban. This includes any outdoor burning at a residence. Anyone in violation of the burning ban could receive a citation and/or fine. Issuing of new burning permits has also been suspended.
The open burn ban is authorized by the Cabarrus County Fire Marshal’s Office per the N.C. State Building Code: Fire Prevention Code Section 307, and Chapter 34 of the Cabarrus County Fire Prevention and Protection Ordinance, to help prevent the potential for increased wildfires due to extremely dry weather conditions.
The local measure aligns with the burn ban issued by the North Carolina Department of Agriculture.
Open burning includes burning leaves, branches and other plant material, along with recreational fires, bonfires and outdoor fireplaces. The ban does not apply to cooking fires, such as grills or outdoor cookers. In all cases, it is illegal to burn trash, lumber, tires, newspapers, plastics or other non-vegetative materials. Residents should be especially careful with potential ignition sources such as cigarettes or sparks from lawn equipment.
Burn ban FAQ
Q: What is open burning?
A: Open burning includes burning leaves, branches or other plant material. In all cases, burning trash, lumber, tires, newspapers, plastics or other nonvegetative material is illegal.
Q: Can I still use my grill or barbecue?
A: Yes, if no other local ordinances prohibit their use.
Q: How should I report a wildfire?
A: Call 911.
Q: How should I report a person who intentionally starts a wildfire?
A: Call 911.
Q: Where does the Cabarrus County burn ban apply?
A: The Cabarrus County burn ban extends to all areas within 100 feet of an occupied dwelling in the unincorporated locations of Cabarrus County as well as the Town of Midland, Town of Mt. Pleasant and the parts of the Town of Locust in Cabarrus County. The North Carolina Department of Agriculture’s burn ban is applicable for any location greater than 100 feet from a dwelling no matter the location statewide. For areas within the City of Concord, City of Kannapolis or the Town of Harrisburg, please contact their specific Fire Marshals for further information.
City of Concord Fire Department: 704-920-5517
City of Kannapolis Fire Department: 704-920-4260
Town of Harrisburg Fire Department: 704-454-3574
Q: Are there other instances that impact open burning?
A: Local ordinances and air quality regulations may impact open burning. For instance, outdoor burning is prohibited in areas covered by Code Orange or Code Red air quality forecasts. Learn more about air quality forecasts here.
Q: Can I have a campfire when I go camping?
A: Campfires are considered open burning and are not exempt from the burn ban. During a burn ban, portable gas stoves or grills are alternate methods for cooking food.
Q: What can I do to protect my house against the risk of wildfire?
A: Learn about wildfire risk assessments and preparedness and prevention plans on the N.C. Forest Service website at www.resistwildfirenc.org.
For more information, contact the Cabarrus County Fire Marshal's Office at 704-920-2143.