Cabarrus Fire Marshal issues burn ban
Published on March 28, 2026
Cabarrus County Fire Marshal Jacob Thompson has issued a ban that prohibits open burning within 100 feet of structures in all unincorporated areas of Cabarrus County beginning at 6 p.m. on Saturday, March 28, 2026.
The local action coincides with the statewide ban issued by the North Carolina Department of Agriculture and will remain in effect until further notice.
Open burning includes the burning of leaves, branches, and other plant material, along with recreational fires, bonfires and outdoor fireplaces. In all cases, it is illegal to burn trash, lumber, tires, newspapers, plastics or other non-vegetative materials.
The ban does not apply to cooking fires, such as grills or outdoor cookers.
Residents should be especially careful with potential ignition sources such as cigarettes or sparks from lawn equipment.
Any previously issued burning permits are now invalid, and fires should be extinguished. 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. It helps prevent the potential for increased wildfires due to extremely dry weather conditions within the County.
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 non-vegetative 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 towns of Midland and Mt. Pleasant and the Cabarrus portion of Locust. The North Carolina Department of Agriculture’s burn ban is applicable for locations greater than 100 feet from a dwelling, regardless of the location. Residents living in the City of Concord, the City of Kannapolis, or the Town of Harrisburg should contact their respective fire officials for more 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 at https://www.deq.nc.gov/about/divisions/air-quality/outreach-education-engagement/air-quality-forecasts
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 alternative methods for cooking food while camping.
Q: What can I do to protect my house against the risk of wildfire?
A: Learn about wildfire risk assessments, preparedness and prevention plans on the N.C. Forest Service website at https://www.ncagr.gov/divisions/nc-forest-service/resist-wildfire-north-carolina
For more information, contact the Cabarrus County Fire Marshal's Office at 704-920-2143.