Open-burning ban remains in Rockingham County as state lifts restrictions elsewhere

The N.C. Forest Service lifted the state’s open-burning ban for 81 counties effective May 3, while keeping restrictions in place for a smaller list that includes Rockingham County.

State officials said recent rainfall reduced fire danger in many areas, but conditions in remaining counties did not yet support a full rollback of the order.

For Reidsville and nearby communities, that means backyard burning and other open-fire activity stay restricted until additional state notice.

Public guidance continues to emphasize checking current county status before outdoor burning plans and following local fire-safety enforcement updates.

Source: N.C. Department of Agriculture & Consumer Services, "State's ban on open burning lifted for 81 North Carolina counties" (posted May 2, 2026), ncagr.gov.