Buncombe County Fire Marshall Discourages Open Burning

Today, the Buncombe County Fire Marshall released an announcement discouraging open burning, amid high risk for fire. North Carolina has experienced a significant lack of rainfall over an extended period, leading the moderate to extreme droughts across the state. Additionally, Buncombe County is experiencing hot, dry, and breezy conditions. Dry grasses, dead leaves, and other vegetative debris can easily ignite and spread quickly.  

Community members are encouraged to postpone outdoor burning and let yard debris burns wait. If a burn is needed, use extreme caution and take proper precautions with all outdoor fires. Use extreme caution when handling potential ignition sources such as machinery and farm equipment.  

Though dangers are increased, conditions do not warrant a ban at this time. Help emergency crews protect you and your property by refraining from burning is possible.   

A reminder:   

• All fires must be attended and have a means of extinguishment on hand.   

• Keep fires small and manageable.   

• Keep fires away from combustible vegetation and structures, at least 25 feet.   

• Burning of all material is prohibited where there is public pickup for yard waste, including the City of Asheville and other municipalities.    

• Only the burning of natural vegetation is allowed