Effective immediately, Union County Fire Marshal Jon Williams has enacted a local burn ban prohibiting all outdoor burning within 100 feet of an occupied home due to increased fire risk caused by dry weather conditions. The burn ban is authorized by the Union County Fire Marshal under the North Carolina Fire Code (Section 307) and is intended to reduce the risk of fires that could threaten lives, properties and emergency resources.

 

This local action aligns with the statewide burn ban issued by the North Carolina Forest Service on March 28, 2026, which prohibits all outdoor burning more than 100 feet from an occupied structure and suspends all burning permits until further notice.

 

Together, these restrictions effectively ban all outdoor burning in Union County. The burn ban applies to all areas of Union County. Typically, Monroe and Waxhaw have their own fire code enforcement; officials within those municipalities confirmed with the Fire Marshal's Office they will also implement a local burn ban. 

 

All outdoor burning is prohibited. This includes fire pits, burning yard debris in piles, barrels, and other examples of open burning. Violations may result in fines and penalties.

 

"Even small outdoor fires can quickly spread and become dangerous," Williams said. "This action is necessary to protect our residents and emergency responders."

 

In all cases, it is illegal to burn trash, lumber, tires, newspapers, plastics, or other non-vegetative materials. Anyone in violation of the Union County burn ban may be issued civil penalties of up to $200 per occurrence, in addition to a potential fine from the state. 

 

Residents may still use gas or charcoal grills, as the burn ban does not apply to grills. 

 

The current burn ban will remain in effect until the N.C. Forest Service lifts its statewide ban or when Williams determines there has been sufficient rainfall to reduce the fire risk and safely lift the local restrictions. Residents are urged to exercise extreme caution and follow all guidelines to prevent potential fire hazards.