Effective March 28, 2026:

WHEREAS, recent dry conditions and increased winds have significantly increased wildfire activity in Harnett County; and

WHEREAS, recent fire activity has necessitated the involvement of multiple agencies and fire departments to bring them under control; and

WHEREAS, fire danger in Harnett County remains at extreme levels, with minimal amounts of rainfall predicted in the near future;

IT IS THEREFORE PROCLAIMED by the Fire Marshal of Harnett County, pursuant to Section 307 of the North Carolina Fire Prevention Code that all open burning is prohibited in Harnett County until further notice. This prohibition shall take effect at 6:00 PM EDT on Saturday, March 28, 2026, and will remain in effect until atmospheric conditions improve and the fire hazard has subsided. Residents of Harnett County are strongly urged to take all necessary precautions to minimize fire risks during this period. This restriction extends outward 100 feet from all residential structures. However, this proclamation does not prohibit the use of outdoor grills, provided proper precautions are taken to prevent fire from escaping those appliances.