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Fire Department Burning Permits

The N. C. State Fire Prevention Code was amended to indicate that "no person shall kindle or maintain any bonfire or other outdoor fire or authorize any such fire to be kindled or maintained without a permit or other authorization."

This fire code restriction applies to all outdoor burning and warming fires. In instances where bonfires or other outdoor warming fires are taking place, the responsible person should have available current fire department documentation approving the activity. The only exceptions to this requirement are warming fires at building construction sites and at Christmas tree lots.

In instances where outdoor burning fires occur, the following shall apply:

• The fire must be contained in an approved metal container or waste burner located safely not less than fifteen (15) feet from any structure or other heat and fuel sources.
• The fire must be constantly attended by a competent person until it is extinguished. Such fires are prohibited when atmospheric or local conditions make them hazardous.
• Suitable fire extinguishing equipment such as a garden hose connected to the water supply or approved fire extinguishers shall be available ready for use.

When a fire company is dispatched to an outdoor burning/ warming fire complaint, the company officer is authorized to extinguish the fire and issue a Notice of Fire Code Violation (citation) for illegal burning to the responsible person. If no responsible person can be identified, the appropriate action(s) should be taken and the incident referred to the Fire Prevention Bureau.