The South Carolina Forestry Commission has slapped a State Forester’s Burning Ban on every county in the state, effective at 4 p.m. today. The order shuts down outdoor burning in unincorporated areas, covering yard debris, prescribed burns, campfires, bonfires and other recreational fires. Fires used to prepare food and those contained in approved noncombustible enclosures are still allowed. The commission says the ban will stay in place until officials formally announce that it has been lifted.
In a press release, the commission reported that relative humidity had dipped below 20% in parts of the state and that “extremely dry fuels statewide,” combined with gusty winds, could cause even small sparks to spread quickly. Fire Chief Darryl Jones warned that conditions were “ripe for any fire that starts to burn intensely and move fast.” The full advisory is available from the South Carolina Forestry Commission.
Local agencies are helping get the word out so residents understand how the order meshes with existing city rules. The City of Rock Hill Fire Department reshared the commission’s advisory on Facebook and reminded residents that municipal limits typically prohibit open burning but permit small cooking fires and contained backyard fires in approved devices. The post urged people to hold off on outdoor burning while conditions remain critical and to report escaped debris burns to local authorities, according to the City of Rock Hill.
What the ban covers and penalties
Under state law, a State Forester’s Burning Ban allows the state forester to block outdoor fires on unincorporated lands, including campfires and bonfires, while carving out exceptions for fires used to cook food and those in approved enclosures. A first conviction under this section of the law can bring a fine of up to $200 or up to 30 days in jail, with tougher penalties possible for repeat offenses. The legal language is spelled out in the South Carolina Code.
How to stay safe and where to get updates
Officials advise residents to postpone any outdoor burning until the commission lifts the ban, keep combustible material cleared well away from structures, and have water and hand tools ready in case a blaze gets away from them. Anyone who sees smoke or an escaped debris burn is urged to call 911 immediately and notify their local fire department. For official updates, the commission’s advisory remains the go-to source; the release is posted by the South Carolina Forestry Commission.
