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North Carolina Campfire Rules (2026)

Permitted: Campfires, outdoor cooking fires and bonfires are permitted (burning only vegetation/firewood) unless prohibited by local ordinance or a temporary burn ban.

PermittedVerified Jun 18, 2026

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Campfires, outdoor cooking fires and bonfires are permitted (burning only vegetation/firewood) unless prohibited by local ordinance or a temporary burn ban. Fires must be controlled and never left unattended.

Official source: deq.nc.gov →

General legal information, not legal advice — verify important decisions with a licensed attorney.

Campfire Rules in states bordering North Carolina

The same rule in each neighboring state LawLert has verified, from that state’s own official source.

GeorgiaPermitted
Campfires and barbeques are exempt from EPD's summer open-burning ban and need no GFC burn permit. Attend the fire until fully extinguished, keep clearance from structures/woodlands, and follow any local ordinances.
Verified Jun 18, 2026 · Source: epd.georgia.gov · Full Georgia rule →
South CarolinaConditional
Campfires/recreational fires are allowed but, since 2017 law (H.3719), can be prohibited under a State Forester's Burning Ban. Cooking fires and fires in approved enclosures (fire pits, chimineas) are exempt from such bans (SC Code 48-35-55).
Verified Jun 18, 2026 · Source: scfc.gov · Full South Carolina rule →
TennesseePermitted
Campfires are generally allowed without a state debris-burn permit, but a state or county burn ban (proclaimed by the Commissioner of Agriculture or Governor) prohibits all open-air burning including campfires and cooking fires. Check local ordinances.
Verified Jun 18, 2026 · Source: tn.gov · Full Tennessee rule →
VirginiaConditional
During the 4 PM Burning Law (Feb 15–Apr 30) campfires count as open-air burning and are banned before 4 PM within 300 ft of woods. Allowed if covered by a 1/4-inch metal screen or kept 300+ ft from woods/brush; attend the fire and have water/rake/shovel ready.
Verified Jun 18, 2026 · Source: dof.virginia.gov · Full Virginia rule →

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