NEW YORK- New York’s annual statewide ban on residential brush burning will take effect March 16 as officials warn that warming temperatures can quickly create dangerous wildfire conditions.
New York State Department of Environmental Conservation Commissioner Amanda Lefton announced the seasonal restriction, which runs through May 14. The rule, enforced since 2009, is intended to prevent spring wildfires and protect communities, firefighters and first responders.
“Many of us are looking forward to spring weather after a very cold winter, but with the warming temperatures comes increased fire risk,” Lefton said. “That’s why we’re once again asking all New Yorkers to abide by the two-month-long burn ban.”
State officials say open burning of debris is the single largest cause of spring wildfires in New York. As temperatures rise and last fall’s leaves and brush dry out, fires can start and spread quickly, often fueled by wind and the lack of green vegetation early in the season.
Each year, DEC Forest Rangers and local fire departments respond to dozens of wildfires that burn hundreds of acres statewide. Many local departments rely heavily on volunteers who must leave work and family obligations to respond to fires caused by illegal debris burning.
The state first enacted strict open burning restrictions in 2009 to reduce wildfire risk and air pollution. Under the rules, residential brush burning is generally allowed in towns with fewer than 20,000 residents during most of the year but is prohibited statewide during the spring ban period, when wildfire risk is highest.
Certain small fires remain permitted. Backyard fire pits and campfires less than three feet high and four feet in diameter are allowed, as are small cooking fires. However, only charcoal or dry, clean, untreated or unpainted wood may be burned, and fires must never be left unattended.
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