Brush burning ban kicks off on Thursday

ALBANY — A two-month long statewide ban on residential brush burning begins Thursday, the state Department of Environmental Conservation said.

This winter was warmer and drier than most, but regardless of the weather, New York is always at a greater risk of wildfires in the spring, DEC Commissioner Basil Seggos said in a statement. Though many areas are covered in snow, warming temperatures can quickly cause wildfire conditions to arise, the DEC notes. Open burning of debris is the single largest cause of spring wildfires in the state. Warming temperatures, debris like dry leaves, wind and a lack of green vegetation can fuel the blazes.

The DEC will post the Fire Danger Map for the 2023 fire season on its website once there is a moderate risk. The restrictions dating to 2009 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.

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.

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

The ban runs until May 14. Violators of the regulations 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 (1-833-6977264). To report environmental law violations, call 1-844-DEC-ECOS (1844-332-3267).