New York’s annual brush burning ban now in effect

Albany — The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation recently announced the annual statewide ban prohibiting residential brush burning began March 16 and will run through May 14.

Since 2009, DEC has enforced the annual brush burning ban to help prevent wildland fires and protect communities during heightened conditions for wildfires.

“While we’re seeing record breaking fires in Texas right now, we’re also at a higher risk here in New York,” DEC Commissioner Basil Seggos said. “Before the annual burn ban goes into effect next month, we’re encouraging New Yorkers who burn woody debris to do it carefully, don’t burn on windy days, and have water or equipment ready to extinguish it if needed. All fires must be attended until completely out.”

This winter season did not provide typical snow cover across much of New York State, leaving dormant vegetation from last year’s growing season exposed where it is susceptible to the daily fluctuation of spring weather.

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DEC was advocating extra vigilance before the burn ban goes into effect, as Forest Rangers and local firefighters have already responded to early fires in multiple counties. These fires were caused by debris burning with wind carrying the fire to grassy and wooded areas.

On Feb. 26, Forest Rangers responded to fires caused by debris burning in Delaware and Madison counties, including one a fire in town of Hamilton that was more than 20 acres. On Feb. 27, Rangers responded to fires in Delaware and Schoharie counties, both caused by debris burning with wind carrying fire to grassy and wooded areas. On Feb. 29, Rangers responded to a small fire in Herkimer County.

Since the ban was established, the eight-year annual average number of spring fires decreased by 42.6%, from 2,649 in 2009, to 1,521 in 2018. Warming temperatures can quickly cause wildfire conditions.

Open burning of debris is the single-largest cause of spring wildfires in New York State. When temperatures warm and the past fall’s debris and leaves dry out, wildfires can start and spread easily, further fueled by winds and a lack of green vegetation.

Each year, DEC Forest Rangers extinguish dozens of wildfires that burn hundreds of acres. In addition, local fire departments, many of which are staffed by volunteers, all too often have to leave their jobs and families to respond to wildfires caused by illegal debris fires.

DEC will post the Fire Danger Map for the 2024 fire season on DEC’s website once there is a moderate risk anywhere in New York. It can be found here.

New York first enacted strict restrictions on open burning in 2009 to help prevent wildfires and reduce air pollution. The regulations allow residential brush fires in towns with fewer than 20,000 residents during most of the year, but prohibit such burning in spring when most wildfires occur. Backyard fire pits and campfires less than three feet in height and four feet in length, width, or diameter are allowed, as are small cooking fires. Only charcoal or dry, clean, untreated, or unpainted wood can be burned.

Burning garbage or leaves is prohibited year-round in New York State.

Some towns, primarily in and around the Adirondack and Catskill parks, are designated “fire towns.” Open burning is prohibited year-round in these municipalities unless an individual or group has a permit from DEC. To find out whether a municipality is a designated fire town or to obtain a permit, contact the appropriate DEC regional office.

Forest Rangers, DEC Environmental Conservation Police Officers (ECOs), and local authorities enforce the burn ban. Violators of the State’s open burning regulation are subject to criminal and civil enforcement actions, with a minimum fine of $500 for a first offense. For search and rescue, reporting a wildfire or illegal activity on state lands and easements, call 1-833-NYS-RANGERS (1-833-697-7264).

For more information about fire safety and prevention, visit DEC’s FIREWISE New York webpage.