Visit The Outer Banks

Beach Fire and Fireworks Rules

Enjoy the beach responsibly

A beach fire can make an Outer Banks evening feel peaceful, memorable, and fun. Beach fires are allowed, with regulations, on beaches in Nags Head and along the Cape Hatteras National Seashore. They are not allowed in Duck, Southern Shores, Kitty Hawk and Kill Devil Hills.

In Nags Head, permits are required and can be obtained by visiting NagsHeadFireRescue.com. Fires will not be permitted if winds are 10 knots or more. A picture ID, the address of applicant and the location for the requested fire are required. Fires cannot be built within 50 feet of any combustible material. In addition, the hollowed-out pit must be no larger than 3 feet in diameter and not less than 1 foot in depth. The fire must be attended by an adult and must be extinguished prior to leaving.

For the Cape Hatteras National Seashore, Small ground fires are permitted on the beach below the high tide line and a minimum 100 feet from dune vegetation. Ground fires must be attended by an adult and be completely extinguished using water, not sand, before leaving. Permits are required. A free beach fire permit is available through the National Park Service website.

As for fireworks, North Carolina and Dare County prohibit the possession of any pyrotechnics which launch or propel into the air, or which explode making a sound or "report." Sparklers, fountains and ground displays are allowed in some towns but not all, and only with adult supervision and when exercising extreme caution and fire prevention.

Town-specific fireworks regulations apply in:

Visit the Fire Rules on The Outer Banks | Beach Safety Guidance page →