New York State Burn Ban March 16 – May 14

The New York Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) enforces the annual burn ban due to the increased wildfire risk in early spring. Dry conditions, strong winds, and leftover dead vegetation from winter contribute to fire hazards across the state. Just last week fire crews in Cayuga County battled a brush fire that could’ve been much worse if not for the fast-action of local departments.

What Is Prohibited During the Burn Ban?

Under the ban, the following are strictly prohibited:

• Burning refuse, trash, tires, and solid waste
• Burning loose leaves and leaf piles
• Burning pressure-treated wood, painted wood, or composite materials
• Large brush pile burns, except in small towns with fewer than 20,000 residents

What Is Allowed?

Despite the restrictions, some types of fires are still permitted:

• Campfires and small cooking fires (must be under 3 feet in height and 4 feet in width)
• Ceremonial or celebratory bonfires
• Fires on agricultural lands (over five acres) for organic waste disposal
• Prescribed burns (with DEC approval) for invasive species control