North Carolina’s Open Burning Rule prohibits burning solid waste and non-vegetative materials. It is illegal to always burn these materials.
If someone is in the process of actively burning solid waste and non-vegetative materials, call 911 immediately.
If you are concerned about illegal burning in unincorporated Orange County (outside of town limits) that has already occurred or suspect someone is going to burn materials, please contact Orange County Solid Waste Management at (919) 968-2788 or recycling@orangecountync.gov.
Leaves, branches, and other plant growth can be burned under certain conditions. It is illegal to burn yard debris or leaves within the Town limits of Chapel Hill, Carrboro, and Hillsborough. If you witness or are concerned about burning within Town limits, please call 911.