In response to escalating wildfire threats, Union County has enacted a comprehensive update to its burn ban ordinance, effective April 23, 2025. The revised regulations empower the county to automatically enforce burn bans during periods of elevated fire danger, such as Red Flag Warnings, without requiring additional action from the Board of Commissioners.
Under the new ordinance, any issuance of a wind advisory, high wind watch, high wind warning, fire weather watch, or Red Flag Warning by the National Weather Service triggers an immediate prohibition on open burning throughout Union County. This includes activities like burning debris, brush, or trash, as well as the use of burn barrels, regardless of whether they are equipped with safety grates.
Certain exceptions are outlined in the ordinance. Fires contained within liquid-fueled or gas-fueled stoves, indoor fireplaces, charcoal grills at private residences, and permanent fire pits located in supervised, developed picnic grounds and campgrounds are permitted. However, these exceptions do not apply during active burn bans prompted by hazardous weather conditions.
The ordinance also mandates that individuals intending to conduct open burning must notify the Union County Sheriff’s Office Communications Center at 605-356-2679, providing details such as the burner’s name, address, phone number, type of material to be burned, and location of the burn. All open burning must be supervised while in progress.
Violations of the burn ban can result in penalties of up to 30 days in county jail, a $500 fine, or both. Additionally, individuals responsible for unauthorized fires may be held liable for all suppression costs, including emergency response fees and damages.
The ordinance’s implementation coincides with recent Red Flag Warnings in the region. For instance, on May 11, 2025, Union County was under a Red Flag Warning from 11:00 AM to 10:00 PM due to high temperatures, strong southerly winds, and low relative humidity. During this period, the burn ban was automatically enforced to mitigate fire risks.
Residents are encouraged to stay informed about current burn bans and fire weather conditions by visiting the Union County Emergency Management Facebook page or the county’s official website. For further information, contact Union County Emergency Manager Jason Westcott at 605-670-1548.
This proactive approach aims to enhance public safety and protect property by reducing the likelihood of wildfires during periods of heightened risk.
Union County implements stricter burn ban ordinance amid heightened fire risks