Burning permits can be obtained online through the North Carolina Forestry Service. Please contact our Emergency Communications Center at 704-289-1591 and let them know you have obtained a burn permit and will be burning.

For information about planning an escape route in your home in case of fire, visit the FEMA website.

Union County provides public education programs at daycares, schools and businesses throughout the county. Contact any of the Fire Marshal’s Office staff for more information on upcoming events or to set up an event.

In some areas of Union County, open burning is allowed under the regulations of the North Carolina Division of Air Quality; however in some areas, open burning is not allowed. Municipalities where open burning is prohibited are as follows: Monroe, Wingate, Marshville, Indian Trail, Waxhaw and Stallings. Reasons why open burning is prohibited in the aforementioned municipalities range from trash collection being provided to the municipality having an ordinance against open burning.

Open burning is allowed in the following areas of Union County, provided that you adhere to the regulations set forth by the Division of Air Quality: Fairview, Unionville, Hemby Bridge, Marvin, Mineral Springs, Weddington, Wesley Chapel and unincorporated Union County. The North Carolina Division of Air Quality maintains regulations on what can be burnt. If someone is burning something that you feel is not allowed, you can review the North Carolina Open Burning Regulations.

There are many ways to prevent starting a fire, which include but are not limited to:

• Schedule a fire inspection; call Beth Belk at 704-283-3528
• Always have portable fire extinguishers handy and know how to use them.
• Make sure there are heat and smoke alarms throughout your residence and make sure the battery works for each one; remember to check the alarms monthly and change batteries every six months.