Statesville Fire Marshal Issues Local Burn Ban Amid Increased Fire Risk

May 8, 2026

With the rain we received this week and the statewide burn ban now lifted by the N.C. Forest Service, the local burn ban issued by the Statesville Fire Marshal has also been lifted effective at 8 a.m. this morning.

Update - Statesville Remains Under State and Local Burn Ban

May 3, 2026

The N.C. Forest Service has lifted the statewide burn ban for 81 counties effective May 3; however, Iredell County is not included in that list.

For residents of the City of Statesville, this means open burning remains prohibited within the city limits under both the ongoing state burn ban and the local burn ban issued by Fire Marshal Pete Morrison.

The local burn ban, issued on March 28, remains in effect and prohibits all open burning within 100 feet of an occupied dwelling. Combined with the state burn ban, this means no open burning is allowed within the city limits, including fire pits, outdoor fireplaces, and burning barrels. Grills and enclosed outdoor cooking devices are still permitted, but should be used with caution.

All previously issued burn permits were canceled when the statewide ban went into effect. A valid permit will be required once the state and local burn bans are lifted for this area.

We will continue to share updates as conditions change.

March 30, 2026

In response to hazardous fire conditions, Statesville Fire Marshal Pete Morrison has issued a local burn ban within 100 feet of an occupied dwelling, effective immediately. This local restriction aligns with the statewide burn ban issued by the N.C. Forest Service, which takes effect at 6 p.m. today, and will remain in place until further notice.

Due to ongoing dry conditions, increased wildfire risk, and a recent rise in grass fire responses, this additional measure is intended to further reduce the risk of fires within the city.

Under this ban, all open burning is prohibited within the Statesville city limits, including within 100 feet of an occupied dwelling. This includes the use of fire pits, outdoor fireplaces, and burning barrels. Burning yard debris, such as leaves and branches, is already prohibited within the city limits at all times. Grills and enclosed outdoor cooking devices are still permitted; however, residents are urged to use extreme caution.

Violations may result in fines, and individuals may be held responsible for the cost of fire suppression.

The N.C. Forest Service’s statewide burn ban prohibits all open burning in all 100 counties, suspends all burning permits, and applies to outdoor fires regardless of prior permit approval.

Residents with questions about the local burn ban can contact the Statesville Fire Marshal’s Office at 704-878-3401.