04/14/2026
Charlotte Fire is reminding residents that the burn ban remains in effect across the City of Charlotte as hot, dry and windy conditions continue to increase the risk of rapidly spreading fires.
Since the statewide burn ban was put in place on March 28, Charlotte Fire has responded to 50 brush fires across the city. With heat and dry weather continuing, the risk for additional fires remains high.
Open burning is prohibited in the City of Charlotte, including within 100 feet of an occupied dwelling. This local action, in coordination with the statewide burn ban, is intended to prevent fires from starting and spreading due to current dry and windy conditions.
Charlotte Fire crews are already seeing the impact of these conditions, with an increase in brush fires across the area. Even small fires can quickly grow out of control, putting lives, property and first responders at risk.
On March 31, a home fire was caused by ashes from a fire pit that reignited and spread to the residence. The fire displaced the family and caused approximately $125,000 in damage, highlighting how quickly fires can start and spread under current conditions.
Residents are reminded that open burning includes yard debris such as leaves, limbs and natural vegetation. Burning trash, construction materials or other non-vegetative items is always illegal. Under the local burn ban, recreational fires, bonfires, fire pits and warming fires are prohibited. Only cooking fires are permitted, and they must be contained within a grill or outdoor cooking device, attended at all times, and accompanied by a readily available means of extinguishment.
Charlotte Fire will continue working alongside state and local partners to monitor conditions and enforce the burn ban.