A New York statewide annual ban on burning residential brush is in effect through May 14.
Open burning of debris is the largest cause of spring wildfires in New York state, according to the state Department of Environmental Conservation. The spring season brings increased risk of fires due to drought conditions, dry vegetation, warmer temperatures, low humidity and high winds.
When temperatures warm and the past fall’s debris and leaves dry out, wildfires can start and spread easily when fueled by winds and a lack of green vegetation, the DEC said. Each year, DEC forest rangers extinguish dozens of wildfires that burn hundreds of acres, they said.
“As the seasons change, melting snow leaves behind dead leaves and brush more likely to catch fire and put our communities and natural resources at risk,” said Amanda Lefton, acting commissioner of the NYS DEC.
Restrictions on open burning were enacted 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 burning in spring when most wildfires occur.
Backyard fire pits and campfires less than 3 feet in height and 4 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, according to the DEC.
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 the DEC, according to the news release.
Burning garbage or leaves is prohibited year-round.
Those who violate the state’s open burning regulation are subject to a minimum fine of $500 for a first offense.
For search and rescue, reporting a wildfire or illegal activity on state lands and easements, people can call 1-833-NYS-RANGERS (1-833-697-7264). To report environmental law violations, contact 1-844-DEC-ECOS (1-844-332-3267).