Sumter County, SC Fire Regulations: Outdoor Burning (2026)

Article IV of Chapter 16 makes it unlawful to kindle or maintain open burning on residential property, or within 200 feet of residential property anywhere in unincorporated Sumter County, unless three conditions in Section 16-72 are met: the fire sits at least 50 feet from any dwelling with provisions to keep it from spreading closer; a competent adult (18 or older) constantly attends it with a garden hose or other extinguishing equipment ready, after notifying the State Forester; and the fire is extinguished by sunset, since no burning is allowed between sunset and sunrise except cooking fires, campfires, and recreational, ceremonial or warming fires.

C. Code Section 48-35-10 et seq. Section 16-73 puts the Sumter County Fire Marshal in charge of enforcement, giving that official sole authority to prohibit any burning, even burning that would otherwise be legal, when atmospheric or local conditions make it hazardous. Section 16-74 separately bars burning that could damage a county road or drainage right-of-way. Section 16-75 exempts state-authorized forestry, wildlife and agricultural burns, food-preparation and recreational fires performed safely, and organized fire-fighting training drills. Hazardous or toxic material may never be burned under Section 16-76, and Section 16-77 makes clear that an authorized burn does not shield the person responsible from civil or criminal liability for resulting damage.