In the wake of several days or rain, both Macon County and the Town of Franklin have ended their respective burn bans. More rain is expected in the following days.
Macon County declaration
The Macon County fire marshall declared the end of the burn ban April 28. Here is the official language:
“Due to recent rainfall, the burn ban implemented on March 28, 2026, by the Macon County Fire Marshal’s Office pursuant to North Carolina Fire Code Section 307.1.1 prohibiting open burning within 100 feet of a dwelling, including the burning of leaves, branches, o r other plant material, is hereby lifted effective immediately. Residents are still advised to use caution when burning.
“The North Carolina Forest Service currently still has a ban on all open burning beyond 100 feet from a dwelling. A press release will be issued by that agency when their burn ban is lifted.”
Official declaration from the Town of Franklin
“WHEREAS, on Saturday, March 28, 2026 at 6:00 p.m., Mayor Stacy J. Guffey of
the Town of Franklin, determined and declared in conjunction with the North Carolina Forest Service a burn ban effective Saturday, March 28, 2026 at 6:00 p.m. that a Fire Danger Emergency existed within Town of Franklin, and
“WHEREAS, the North Carolina Forest Service has not rescinded the burn ban for Macon County; however, officials from Macon County have determined that the conditions constituting a fire danger emergency no longer exists in Macon County and within the Town of Franklin.
“NOW, THEREFORE, I hereby terminate the above referenced declaration of a
fire danger emergency and all the restrictions and orders contained therein.
This declaration is effective Wednesday, April 29, 2026 at 10:00 a.m.”
Tips for safe burning
As always, the N.C. Forest Service asks residents to exercise caution when burning debris in the open.
