Due to increased fire risk, the N.C. Forest Service has issued a ban on all open burning and has canceled all burning permits statewide effective 8 a.m. Friday, March 21 until further notice.  

Under North Carolina law, the ban prohibits all open burning in the affected counties, regardless of whether a permit was previously issued. The issuance of any new permits has also been suspended until the ban is lifted. Anyone violating the burn ban faces a $100 fine plus $183 court costs. Any person responsible for setting a fire may be liable for any expenses related to extinguishing the fire.  

The burn ban does not apply to fires started within 100 feet of an occupied dwelling. The local fire marshal has authority to issue a burn ban within that 100 feet.

Read the news release.

Light pollution affects us all. Below are five ways you can make a difference.

1. Install lighting only when and where it is needed.
2. Use energy saving features, such as timers, dimmers, and motion sensors, on outdoor lights.
3. Make sure your lighting is shielded so light shines down, not up. 
4. Educate your friends and neighbors about the importance of good lighting for our health, economy, and environment. 
5. Learn more about the Town's Dark Skies, Bright Stars Initiative.

Did you know that maintaining your septic system can help you avoid costly repairs down the road? Our Todd D. Krafft Septic Health Initiative is here to help! 

• Free non-emergency septic system inspections
• Financial assistance for necessary repairs
• Educational resources to keep your system running smoothly

A well-maintained septic system protects your home, your wallet, and our beautiful environment. 

Learn more about how you can take advantage of this program.

You'll find many different types of plastic bottles around your home. Are hydrogen peroxide, contact lens solution, and hand soap plastic bottles recyclable? 

Yes! Our recycling contractor, TFC Recycling, can accept #1 and #2 plastic bottles, as long as they are properly rinsed and the pumps are removed.

View a reference guide on what can and cannot go into our recycling containers. 

If you don't have time to haul your recyclables to the recycling centers we have at Town Hall (5401 South Croatan Highway) and our Public Services facility (2203 Lark Avenue), be sure to subscribe to the curbside recycling collection service offered by TFC Recycling. The cost is only $13.35/month.