North Carolina Under Statewide Burn Ban: What You Need to Know

0:00On March 21st, here's the latest out of Durham. North Carolina is under a statewide burn ban right now, put in place by the Forest Service because forest fire risks are way too high. This covers all 100 counties with no exceptions, even for folks who normally have burn permits. Open burning of leaves, branches, or any plant material is off limits, along with fires within 100 feet of homes or buildings and violators. Could get hit with a $100 fine plus cost to fight any fires they start. Grills and barbecues are still okay for cooking, but can fires abandon entirely. Officials urge using portable gas stoves instead for safe outdoor meals, and the ban holds until fire conditions ease up.